An introduction to some of the major perspectives, themes and issues in the field of Afro-American studies. The focus is on the economic, social and political aspects of cultural production, and how these inform what it means to read, write about, view and listen to Black culture.

An examination of the broad contours of the history of African American people in the United States from ca. 1600 to 1960. Particular emphasis is given to how African Americans influenced virtually every aspect of U.S. society, slavery and Constitutional changes after 1865, debates on the meaning of freedom and citizenship, and the efforts to contest discrimination, segregation and anti-Black violence.

This course examines historical, critical and theoretical perspectives on the development of Black feminist theory/praxis. The course draws from the 19th century to the present, but focuses on the contemporary Black feminist intellectual tradition that achieved notoriety in the 1970s and initiated a global debate on Western and global feminisms. Central to the exploration is the analysis of the intersectional relationship between theory and practice, and of race, gender and class. The course concludes with the exploration of various expressions of contemporary Black feminist thought around the globe as a way of broadening our knowledge of feminist theory.

Offered as AFR 170 and ENG 235. An introduction to the themes, issues and questions that shaped the literature of African Americans during its period of origin. Texts include poetry, prose and works of fiction. Writers include Harriet Jacobs, Frances Harper, Charles Chesnutt, Frederick Douglass and Phillis Wheatley.

Designed to introduce students to the methods of inquiry used for research in Africana Studies. Through intensive study of a single topic (past examples: Toni Morrison's Beloved, the American South, The Black Seventies) students consider the formation of the field, engage canonical texts, attend lectures and learn from scholars whose work is based in a variety of disciplines. Focus is on the challenges and opportunities made possible by doing multi- and interdisciplinary research: how and why scholars ask and approach research questions and have conversations with each other. Students may explore and develop their own research project. Enrollment limited to 18.

Black artist-activists have long used art and media as a means of chronicling, demanding and inducing change. Examining film, photography, visual art, theater, literature and social media, among other forms, this course considers the work of Black artists and activists, their relationship to the political and the reception of their work. The course critically engages performances and representations of Blackness to explore Black subjectivity and think through how artists and activists craft space for Black agency. The work is animated by key questions surrounding the relationship between art and politics, media and activism, and Black art and survival. Restrictions: AFR 202 may be taken for credit a total of three times with a different topic. Enrollment limited to 20.

The course introduces students to the main theoretical interpretations of culture in the Caribbean and gives an overview of Caribbean cultural history. Students are expected to analyze the impact of colonialism, race, class, gender and sexuality in the formation of Caribbean cultural practices, and to interpret cultural expression in its broadest political sense. Key theoretical terms that are central to any understanding of Caribbean cultural thought – the plantation, diaspora, creolization – are addressed in detail in the course. These key terms in Caribbean cultural thought are mobilized in order to give students the analytical tools to consider a wide variety of Caribbean cultural practices, identity formations and ways of interpreting social reality in the region. Enrollment limited to 40.

What is the role of magic, supernaturalism and psychic power in the lives of Africana people? This seminar critically interrogates how race, coloniality, sexuality and gender shape the social construction of the paranormal through narratives, representations and belief systems invoked by people of African descent. Drawing upon a diverse range of accounts and interdisciplinary perspectives, the class examines the historical, religious, philosophical, political and literary dimensions of Black spiritualism, divination, ghosts, mediums, psychics, conjurers, witches, shamans, superheroes and alien encounters. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 15. Instructor permission required.

Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required.

This course looks closely at a series of canonical black texts. The intention is to examine these texts in their specific historical context with careful attention to their place within Africana intellectual history. This course either focuses on a series of intensive investigations of a set of major texts within Africana studies, or it operates thematically. A thematic treatment of the course involves taking one leading critical figure within the field – for example Frantz Fanon, Toni Morrison, Aimé Césaire, Paule Marshall or Kamau Brathwaite – and constructing the course around a reflection on their work and influence on the field of Africana studies. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 15. Instructor permission required.

Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required.

This course provides an introduction to understanding the concept and practice of human rights in Africa, including comprehending the historical context of these issues. In this regard, several questions are addressed including: What are human rights? Within the African context, are human rights universal or relative? Are human rights viewed as individual or collective in Africa? What is the international framework that affects the enforcement of human rights in Africa? What are the regional and national regimes for safeguarding human rights in Africa? What are some current human rights issues in Africa? Enrollment limited to 40. (E)

An interdisciplinary introduction to Canada taught by Canadian Smith College faculty. Canada was the United States' best friend with the longest undefended border in the world until it was recently taunted to become the 51st state and threatened with a trade war. What, if anything, distinguishes Canadian identities from American? In each weekly session, faculty present a short lecture and then engage in dialogue with the course moderator and students. S/U only. (E)

First half of semester course.

This course provides an introduction to American Studies through the interdisciplinary study of American history, life and culture. Students develop critical tools for analyzing cultural texts (including literature, visual arts, music, fashion, advertising, social media, buildings, objects and bodies) in relation to political, social, economic and environmental contexts. The course examines the influence of race, ethnicity, class, gender, sexuality and transnationality on conceptions of citizenship, and struggles over what it means to be an “American,” and how this has shaped the distribution of power, resources and wellbeing in the United States.

National Parks loom large in the public imagination of the United States. They have come to symbolize the greatness of America through the beauty of its vast and varied terrain and the expansive freedom these spaces imbue. While National Parks have generated a sense of national belonging since the creation of Yellowstone in 1872, they have also been spaces of Indigenous dispossession and racial exclusion. Using the tools of cultural studies, media studies, Indigenous studies, environmental history, and more, this course addresses how National Parks have shaped and have been shaped by shifting ideas about the human relationship to the nonhuman environment through an exploration of conflicts over land use, conservation, ecology, and the idea of “nature” itself. Enrollment limited to 25. (E)

Comedy has been a primary site for enacting and contesting citizenship in the United States. This course presents a history of comedy from the nineteenth century to the present to analyze the role of humor in shaping racial and gender stereotypes, as well as expressions of solidarity, resistance and joy among marginalized groups. Case studies include blackface minstrelsy, stand up comedy, sit-coms, satirical news, social media posts and cancel culture debates. This course applies cultural studies, affect theory, media studies, feminist studies and critical race studies to analyze the social, political, psychological and emotional work of comedy. Enrollment limited to 40

How does one care for themselves and their communities when government or other structural supports are no longer available—and perhaps never have been? What strategies of resilience have people developed in the USA in response? This course examines past and current economies of care such as: seed saving (including by enslaved Africans); queer and trans mutual aid; class-based neighborhood associations; Latinx sanctuary; Jewish farming groups, food cooperatives; Asian American women’s giving circles; fair trade and ethical consumerism; and disability careshift collectives. Students hone critical thinking, reading, writing, speaking, and leadership skills using AMS methods. Enrollment limited to 18. (E)

Offered as ENG 384rc and AMS 351rc. This nonfiction writing seminar uses the concept of ownership as an entry point for artful explorations of the social landscape. Writing in the essayistic tradition of James Baldwin and Joan Didion, the course interprets “ownership” broadly, including the literal ownership of property and the metaphorical ownership of a national identity, a self, and a narrative. Students' work is informed by visits to special collections, the art museum, and the botanic garden, while also incorporating personal experience. Students study the techniques of innovative essayists writing on various aspects of ownership, including this country’s history of holding people as property. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required. (E)

Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required.

What does it mean to be human? What is culture, and how does it shape the way humans see the world? Why are some forms of cultural difference tolerated, while others are not? As the holistic study of the human experience, cultural anthropology addresses these questions in a world shaped by human migration, climate change, capitalist extraction and global inequality. This course provides an overview of the discipline’s history, its distinctive method of ethnography and the breadth of topics it addresses, including public health, race, the environment, gender, language, nationalism, software design, the body, music, cities, government and more. Restrictions: First-years and sophomores only. Enrollment limited to 25.

What does it mean to be human? What is culture, and how does it shape the way humans see the world? Why are some forms of cultural difference tolerated, while others are not? As the holistic study of the human experience, cultural anthropology addresses these questions in a world shaped by human migration, climate change, capitalist extraction and global inequality. This course provides an overview of the discipline’s history, its distinctive method of ethnography and the breadth of topics it addresses, including public health, race, the environment, gender, language, nationalism, software design, the body, music, cities, government and more. Restrictions: First-years and sophomores only. Enrollment limited to 25.

Offered as ANT 135 and ARC 135. This course studies past cultures and societies through their material remains and explores how archaeologists use different field methods, analytical techniques and theoretical approaches to investigate, reconstruct and learn from the past. Data from settlement surveys, site excavations and artifact analysis are used to address economic, social, political and ideological questions across time and space. This course is taught from an anthropological perspective, exploring key transitions in human prehistory, including the origins of food production, social inequality and state-level societies across the globe. Relevance of archaeological practice in modern political, economic and social contexts is explored. Restrictions: First-years and sophomores only. Enrollment limited to 30.

This course introduces students to the variety of methods of inquiry used for research in anthropology. Throughout the semester, students are introduced to methods of locating and analyzing information and sources, developing research questions and writing. Normally taken in the spring of the sophomore or junior year. Prerequisite: ANT 130. Restrictions: Anthropology majors only. Enrollment limited to 20. Instructor permission required.

Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required.

Are humans truly different than other animals? The animal turn in cultural anthropology presents possibilities for questioning the longstanding assumption of the distinction between humans and animals. How might the conception of humanity change when animals are centered alongside humans in ethnographic research? What ramifications and possibilities are revealed? This course explores the myriad of human relationships with animals, ranging from the material, economic, political, emotional, embodied, social, and spiritual to consider these questions. Restrictions: Not open to first-years. Enrollment limited to 25. (E)

This course is a general introduction to anthropological analysis of politics and the political. Through a broad survey of anthropological texts and theories, this course explores what an ethnographic perspective can offer to the understandings of power and government. Special emphasis is placed on the role of culture, symbols and social networks in the political life of local communities. Examples are drawn from a number of case studies in Africa, East Asia, Latin America and the United States, and range in scale from studies of local politics in small-scale societies to analyses of nationalism and political performance in modern nation-states. Enrollment limited to 30.

Museums are dynamic sites of collecting, conserving, analyzing, interpreting, and displaying cultural objects, both ancient and contemporary. This course uses insights from cultural anthropology, archaeology, and heritage studies to explore the history of museums, their diverse formats and audiences, the ethical and legal frameworks guiding their operations, and ongoing debates about their roles as sites of cultural contact, conflict, reconciliation, and restitution. Students gain hands-on experience working with Five College museum collections–primarily archaeological materials from Latin America–and visit other area museums during the semester. Enrollment limited to 30.

Today there is a consensus in physical anthropology that there is no conclusive biological basis to the groupings commonly referred to as “races.” That is, “racial” categories are constituted socially, and naturalized through different cultural processes. However, anthropology has also been part of a long history of seeking biological bases for racial difference, and of using these supposed biological bases to justify different hierarchies and forms of exploitation. This course surveys some of the key moments of this history, focusing on how different “scientific” theories of race have impacted the lives of marginalized groups. Special emphasis is placed on how traces of these older, debunked theories of race continue to emerge in ways that impact public discourse.

This course is a general introduction to the relationship between indigenous societies and the state in Mesoamerica. Taking a broad historical perspective, the course explores the rise of native state-level societies, the transformations that marked the process of European colonization, and the relationship of local indigenous communities to post-colonial states and transnational social movements. Texts used in the course place special emphasis on continuities and changes in language, social organization, cosmology, and identity that have marked the historical experience of native groups in the region.

This course harnesses students’ current and previous coursework to address a real life ethnographic design problem. Working in conjunction with students enrolled in ANT 200, students help to design and carry out a qualitative research project led by an anthropology faculty member and gain insight into anthropology’s practical applications. Students are expected to take leadership roles, think creatively and concretely, work well collaboratively and see projects through to completion. Enrollment limited to 10. Instructor permission required.

Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required.

From air pollution to atmospheric carbon, from extreme weather events to respiratory viruses, the earth's atmosphere is currently intensely palpable. While these topics are typically the purview of natural scientists, they are also cultural phenomena worthy of anthropological exploration. This seminar explores this contemporary atmospheric moment while situating it in a historical context with readings that provide a multidisciplinary perspective traversing the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Readings draw from anthropology, the history of science, literary studies, climate science, botany, and more. Discussions include wind, breathing, evapotranspiration, climate change, and utopia. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required.

Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required.

Offered as ANT 135 and ARC 135. This course studies past cultures and societies through their material remains and explores how archaeologists use different field methods, analytical techniques and theoretical approaches to investigate, reconstruct and learn from the past. Data from settlement surveys, site excavations and artifact analysis are used to address economic, social, political and ideological questions across time and space. This course is taught from an anthropological perspective, exploring key transitions in human prehistory, including the origins of food production, social inequality and state-level societies across the globe. Relevance of archaeological practice in modern political, economic and social contexts is explored. Restrictions: First-years and sophomores only. Enrollment limited to 30.

This course explores how art and architecture have profoundly shaped visual experiences and shifting understandings of the past and present. Featuring different case studies, each section includes work with original objects, site visits and writings about art. Unifying themes include: (1) materials, techniques and the patterns deployed to create space; (2) the design, function and symbolism of images and monuments; (3) artistic production and its relation to individual and institutional patronage, religion, politics and aesthetics; (4) issues turning on artists’ fame versus anonymity and uniqueness versus reproducibility; and (5) cross-cultural exchanges. Enrollment limited to 25.

This course explores how art and architecture have profoundly shaped visual experiences and shifting understandings of the past and present. Featuring different case studies, each section includes work with original objects, site visits and writings about art. Unifying themes include: (1) materials, techniques and the patterns deployed to create space; (2) the design, function and symbolism of images and monuments; (3) artistic production and its relation to individual and institutional patronage, religion, politics and aesthetics; (4) issues turning on artists’ fame versus anonymity and uniqueness versus reproducibility; and (5) cross-cultural exchanges. Enrollment limited to 25.

The meanings ascribed to art and architecture from any culture or period turn upon the interpreter’s preoccupations and methods. This course examines contemporary debates within the discipline, locating them within the field’s own history. The class asks: what kinds of knowledge do historians of art and architecture produce and legitimize? What kinds of questions do they ask, and what means do they use to answer them? Considering art and architectural history as a living field, the focus falls on recent scholarship, with an eye to the dynamic ways in which it builds on and/or departs from the history of the discipline. Prerequisites: ARH 110 or a first-year seminar taught by a member of the department. Enrollment limited to 18.

Offered as POR 201 and ARH 201. This course serves as an introduction in English to contemporary and modern Brazilian art. Course materials and class discussions address such topics as public vs. private art spaces, national vs. global identities, the role of art as agency for social change and as site of memory, activism, resistance and transformation.

What is antiquity in the Americas? To explore this question, this class focuses upon visual cultures and urban settings from across the Americas. Emphasis rests upon recent research especially about the Inka, the Aztec and their ancestors, but the course also studies the current debates in art history and archaeology. Discussions include: sacrifice and rulership, representations of human and deified beings, the symbolic and economic meanings of materials, and the ethics of excavation and museum display. Case studies include architectural complexes, textiles, ceramics and sculpted works from Peru, Mexico, the Caribbean and the U.S. Southwest. Counts for ARU

This course examines global artistic tendencies since 1945 in their art-historical and socio-historical contexts. The class considers such developments as American abstraction and the rise of New York, neo-dada, pop, minimalism, conceptual art, earthworks, the influence of feminism, postmodernism, the politics of identity, conceptions of the site and the institution, global publics and the global culture of art, and the theoretical issues and debates that help to frame these topics.

This course examines intersections of art and medicine from the late 18th century to the present. Considering a variety of texts and objects, from wax medical models and public health posters to Mona Hatoum’s cell-like sculptures and photographic coverage of the 2014 Ebola epidemic, the course disentangles how medical understandings of the body filter into artistic production and popular thought and vice versa. While course material is primarily from Europe and the United States, the course attends to the ways medical imaginings of the body engage with imperialism and geopolitical boundaries, as well as race, gender, ability, class and sexuality. (E)

How did Chinese artists respond to a century of national decline, foreign invasion, urban transformation, and revolution? Why were women--both as artists and as visual icons--critical to the remaking of modern China? This course traces the history of modern Chinese art from the final decades of the Qing dynasty through the Republican period, examining a variety of media including painting, printmaking, photography, film, and architecture. The course explores how artists negotiated tradition and modernity, nationalism and colonialism, masculinity and femininity, with a special focus on the representation of women and the emergence of female artists. Enrollment limited to 20.

This class covers the history of prints from the 15th century through the present day, mainly in the West. The course follows a chronology that allows students to understand the lineage of prints through time and to gain a familiarity with notable practitioners, the aim is to understand printmaking in the context of broader currents in art, culture, and technology. Enrollment limited to 20. (E)

How should ancient East Asian painting and calligraphy, created primarily with ink and brush, be read? What were the typical themes and styles? Who were the artists and their audiences? Why did they venerate certain works of art over others? To answer these questions, this course examines masterpieces of Chinese painting and calligraphy from the Six Dynasties (220-589) to the Yuan Dynasty (1279-1368). This course includes a few studio sessions to give students basic hands-on experience with ink and brush. Restrictions: ARH 290 may be taken for credit a total of 4 times with different topics. Enrollment limited to 20.

An introduction to the use of digital media in the context of contemporary art practice. Students explore content development and design principles through a series of projects involving text, still image and moving image. This class involves critical discussions of studio projects in relation to contemporary art and theory. Core studio materials are provided. Students are responsible for the purchase of additional supplies required for individual projects. Enrollment limited to 14. Instructor permission required.

Entering (first semester) first-years may register. All other class years are Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required. This course is a permission course, meaning students are initially placed on the waitlist. Please read the course description to ensure you meet the listed prerequisites (if any). During November/April registration: The instructor will review the class roster and be in touch about enrollment once all students have had a chance to waitlist. There is nothing else you need to do in the meantime. Please do not submit a course waiver unless requested. During add/drop (Sept/Jan): You may add yourself to the waitlist and contact the instructor about attending the first day of class. If you receive permission to take the course, you should submit a Course Eligibility Waiver.  

An introduction to visual experience through a study of the basic elements of drawing. Core studio materials are provided. Students are responsible for the purchase of additional supplies required for individual projects. Enrollment limited to 18. Instructor permission required.

Entering (first semester) first-years may register. All other class years are Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required. This course is a permission course, meaning students are initially placed on the waitlist. Please read the course description to ensure you meet the listed prerequisites (if any). During November/April registration: The instructor will review the class roster and be in touch about enrollment once all students have had a chance to waitlist. There is nothing else you need to do in the meantime. Please do not submit a course waiver unless requested. During add/drop (Sept/Jan): You may add yourself to the waitlist and contact the instructor about attending the first day of class. If you receive permission to take the course, you should submit a Course Eligibility Waiver.   

An introduction to visual experience through a study of the basic elements of drawing. Core studio materials are provided. Students are responsible for the purchase of additional supplies required for individual projects. Enrollment limited to 18. Instructor permission required.

Entering (first semester) first-years may register. All other class years are Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required. This course is a permission course, meaning students are initially placed on the waitlist. Please read the course description to ensure you meet the listed prerequisites (if any). During November/April registration: The instructor will review the class roster and be in touch about enrollment once all students have had a chance to waitlist. There is nothing else you need to do in the meantime. Please do not submit a course waiver unless requested. During add/drop (Sept/Jan): You may add yourself to the waitlist and contact the instructor about attending the first day of class. If you receive permission to take the course, you should submit a Course Eligibility Waiver.   

An introduction to visual experience through a study of the basic elements of drawing. Core studio materials are provided. Students are responsible for the purchase of additional supplies required for individual projects. Enrollment limited to 18. Instructor permission required.

Entering (first semester) first-years may register. All other class years are Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required. This course is a permission course, meaning students are initially placed on the waitlist. Please read the course description to ensure you meet the listed prerequisites (if any). During November/April registration: The instructor will review the class roster and be in touch about enrollment once all students have had a chance to waitlist. There is nothing else you need to do in the meantime. Please do not submit a course waiver unless requested. During add/drop (Sept/Jan): You may add yourself to the waitlist and contact the instructor about attending the first day of class. If you receive permission to take the course, you should submit a Course Eligibility Waiver.   

This cross-disciplinary studio course involves two-dimensional, three-dimensional and time-based approaches. Students are introduced to a range of conceptual and practical frameworks for making and thinking about art. This course is strongly recommended for students considering the art major. By emphasizing visual thinking, risk-taking and critical reflection, this course also has relevance for other disciplines. Core studio materials are provided. Students are responsible for the purchase of additional supplies required for individual projects. Enrollment limited to 15. Priority given to first years. Instructor permission required.

Entering (first semester) first-years may register. All other class years: Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required. This course is a permissions course, meaning students are initially placed on the waitlist. Please read the course description to ensure you meet the listed prerequisites (if any). During November/April registration: The instructor will review the class roster and be in touch about enrollment once all students have had a chance to waitlist. There is nothing else you need to do in the meantime. Please do not submit a course waiver unless requested. During add/drop (Sept/Jan): You may add yourself to the waitlist and contact the instructor about attending the first day of class. If you receive permission to take the course, you should submit a Course Eligibility Waiver.     

This cross-disciplinary studio course involves two-dimensional, three-dimensional and time-based approaches. Students are introduced to a range of conceptual and practical frameworks for making and thinking about art. This course is strongly recommended for students considering the art major. By emphasizing visual thinking, risk-taking and critical reflection, this course also has relevance for other disciplines. Core studio materials are provided. Students are responsible for the purchase of additional supplies required for individual projects. Enrollment limited to 15. Priority given to first years. Instructor permission required.

Entering (first semester) first-years may register. All other class years: Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required. This course is a permissions course, meaning students are initially placed on the waitlist. Please read the course description to ensure you meet the listed prerequisites (if any). During November/April registration: The instructor will review the class roster and be in touch about enrollment once all students have had a chance to waitlist. There is nothing else you need to do in the meantime. Please do not submit a course waiver unless requested. During add/drop (Sept/Jan): You may add yourself to the waitlist and contact the instructor about attending the first day of class. If you receive permission to take the course, you should submit a Course Eligibility Waiver.     

This cross-disciplinary studio course involves two-dimensional, three-dimensional and time-based approaches. Students are introduced to a range of conceptual and practical frameworks for making and thinking about art. This course is strongly recommended for students considering the art major. By emphasizing visual thinking, risk-taking and critical reflection, this course also has relevance for other disciplines. Core studio materials are provided. Students are responsible for the purchase of additional supplies required for individual projects. Enrollment limited to 15. Priority given to first years. Instructor permission required.

Entering (first semester) first-years may register. All other class years: Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required. This course is a permissions course, meaning students are initially placed on the waitlist. Please read the course description to ensure you meet the listed prerequisites (if any). During November/April registration: The instructor will review the class roster and be in touch about enrollment once all students have had a chance to waitlist. There is nothing else you need to do in the meantime. Please do not submit a course waiver unless requested. During add/drop (Sept/Jan): You may add yourself to the waitlist and contact the instructor about attending the first day of class. If you receive permission to take the course, you should submit a Course Eligibility Waiver.     

Throughout this 7-week course, students work towards developing an understanding of decolonization as it pertains to the camera and photographic processes. They spend time with texts that engage the camera and its role in the creation and upholding of systems pertaining to race and power. The readings are supplemented by rigorous experimentation with alternative photographic processes, including, but not limited to cameraless processes such as cyanotypes, solar prints, and anthotypes. This course approaches decolonization through experimentation thus revealing the expansive possibilities held within the image-making process when experimentation and abstraction are centered. When multiple workshops are offered, students may take different topics during the first and second half of the semester for a total of 4 credits. Up to 4 credits of workshops may count toward the Studio Art Major. No prerequisites. S/U only. Enrollment limited to 12. (E)

First half of semester course.

Throughout this 7-week course, students work towards developing an understanding of decolonization as it pertains to the camera and photographic processes. They spend time with texts that engage the camera and its role in the creation and upholding of systems pertaining to race and power. The readings are supplemented by rigorous experimentation with alternative photographic processes, including, but not limited to cameraless processes such as cyanotypes, solar prints, and anthotypes. This course approaches decolonization through experimentation thus revealing the expansive possibilities held within the image-making process when experimentation and abstraction are centered. When multiple workshops are offered, students may take different topics during the first and second half of the semester for a total of 4 credits. Up to 4 credits of workshops may count toward the Studio Art Major. No prerequisites. S/U only. Enrollment limited to 12. (E)

Second half of semester course.

This 7-week studio intensive engages topics of social justice as central to the discussion and visual inquiry. Through studio work, artist research, class excursions, and short readings, students use drawing as an expansive medium to conceptualize and relate their ideas. This course is experimental in nature and has no defined emphasis on traditional drawing techniques, instead the course takes an expanded/interdisciplinary media approach to drawing, to explore how critical questions of social justice can be developed into impactful artworks. Studio Art Workshops allow students with any level of experience to explore a thematic, expanded approach to art practice. When multiple workshops are offered, students may take different topics during the first and second half of the semester for a total of 4 credits. Up to 4 credits of workshops may count toward the Studio Art Major. No prerequisites. Majors and non-majors welcome. S/U only. Enrollment limited to 12.

First half of semester course.

This 7-week studio intensive engages topics of social justice as central to the discussion and visual inquiry. Through studio work, artist research, class excursions, and short readings, students use drawing as an expansive medium to conceptualize and relate their ideas. This course is experimental in nature and has no defined emphasis on traditional drawing techniques, instead the course takes an expanded/interdisciplinary media approach to drawing, to explore how critical questions of social justice can be developed into impactful artworks. Studio Art Workshops allow students with any level of experience to explore a thematic, expanded approach to art practice. When multiple workshops are offered, students may take different topics during the first and second half of the semester for a total of 4 credits. Up to 4 credits of workshops may count toward the Studio Art Major. No prerequisites. Majors and non-majors welcome. S/U only. Enrollment limited to 12.

Second half of semester course.

This course builds working knowledge of multimedia digital artwork through experience with a variety of software, focusing on video and time-based media. Core studio materials are provided. Students are responsible for the purchase of additional supplies required for individual projects. Enrollment limited to 14. No prerequisites. Instructor permission required.

Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required. This course is a permissions course, meaning all students are initially placed on the waitlist. Please read the course description to ensure you meet the listed prerequisites (if any). During November/April registration: The instructor will review the class roster and be in touch about enrollment once all students have had a chance to waitlist. There is nothing else you need to do in the meantime. Please do not submit a course waiver unless requested. During add/drop (Sept/Jan): You may register to the waitlist and contact the instructor about attending the first day of class. If you receive permission to take the course, you should submit a Course Eligibility Waiver.     

Various spatial and pictorial concepts are investigated through the oil medium. Core studio materials are provided. Students are responsible for the purchase of additional supplies required for individual projects. Prerequisite: ARS 163 or equivalent. Enrollment limited to 18. Instructor permission required.

Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required. This course is a permissions course, meaning all students are initially placed on the waitlist. Please read the course description to ensure you meet the listed prerequisites (if any). During November/April registration: The instructor will review the class roster and be in touch about enrollment once all students have had a chance to waitlist. There is nothing else you need to do in the meantime. Please do not submit a course waiver unless requested. During add/drop (Sept/Jan): You may register to the waitlist and contact the instructor about attending the first day of class. If you receive permission to take the course, you should submit a Course Eligibility Waiver.     

In this course, students take a materialist approach to painting. With a focus on oil and water-based pigments, students explore mixed-media and experimental painting methods, and learn varied traditions of color theory and surface techniques through prompt-based assignments. This class includes working with sites and collections on campus--like the Botanic Garden, Smith Archives, or Design Thinking--to practice idea generation and consider ways to incorporate different themes and visual resources into our studio practice. Prerequisite: ARS 163. Enrollment limited to 18. Instructor permission required.

Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required. This course is a permissions course, meaning all students are initially placed on the waitlist. Please read the course description to ensure you meet the listed prerequisites (if any). During November/April registration: The instructor will review the class roster and be in touch about enrollment once all students have had a chance to waitlist. There is nothing else you need to do in the meantime. Please do not submit a course waiver unless requested. During add/drop (Sept/Jan): You may add yourself to the waitlist and contact the instructor about attending the first day of class. If you receive permission to take the course, you should submit a Course Eligibility Waiver. 

The human figure and other natural forms. Work in modeling and plaster casting. Core studio materials are provided. Students are responsible for the purchase of additional supplies required for individual projects. Enrollment limited to 15. Prerequisite: ARS 163, ARS 172 or equivalent. Instructor permission required.

Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required. This course is a permissions course, meaning all students are initially placed on the waitlist. Please read the course description to ensure you meet the listed prerequisites (if any). During November/April registration: The instructor will review the class roster and be in touch about enrollment once all students have had a chance to waitlist. There is nothing else you need to do in the meantime. Please do not submit a course waiver unless requested. During add/drop (Sept/Jan): You may register to the waitlist and contact the instructor about attending the first day of class. If you receive permission to take the course, you should submit a Course Eligibility Waiver.     

This course introduces students to different installation strategies (e.g., working with multiples, found objects, light and site-specificity, among others). Coursework includes a series of projects, critiques, readings and short writing assignments. Students may require additional supplies and are responsible for purchasing them directly. Enrollment limited to 12. Prerequisite: ARS 172 or equivalent. Instructor permission required.

Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required. This course is a permissions course, meaning all students are initially placed on the waitlist. Please read the course description to ensure you meet the listed prerequisites (if any). During November/April registration: The instructor will review the class roster and be in touch about enrollment once all students have had a chance to waitlist. There is nothing else you need to do in the meantime. Please do not submit a course waiver unless requested. During add/drop (Sept/Jan): You may register to the waitlist and contact the instructor about attending the first day of class. If you receive permission to take the course, you should submit a Course Eligibility Waiver.     

Investigates the structure of the book as a form and examines the formal, symbolic, and linguistic nature of the Latin alphabet. The course explores traditional and non-traditional typography using manual typesetting and letterpress printing, including some digital applications. Core studio materials are provided. Students are responsible for the purchase of additional supplies required for individual projects. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required.

Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required. This course is a permissions course, meaning all students are initially placed on the waitlist. Please read the course description to ensure you meet the listed prerequisites (if any). During November/April registration: The instructor will review the class roster and be in touch about enrollment once all students have had a chance to waitlist. There is nothing else you need to do in the meantime. Please do not submit a course waiver unless requested. During add/drop (Sept/Jan): You may register to the waitlist and contact the instructor about attending the first day of class. If you receive permission to take the course, you should submit a Course Eligibility Waiver.     

In nurturing architecture’s foundational principles of visual, material and conceptual experimentation, this course lays the foundation for subsequent studios, lifelong learning and curiosity for architectural design processes. It probes the material, organizational and spatial qualities of the ground, a shared horizontal territory inhabited by plants, people and buildings--one that is as much cultural as it is natural. Through iterative and analog processes, students integrate drawing and making to construct and reconstruct lines in the ground. Probing the physical and conceptual ground for natural or constructed patterns, students develop foundation-level design skills within the context of larger environmental and cultural discourses. Core studio materials are provided. Students are responsible for the purchase of additional supplies required for individual projects. Restrictions: Not open to students who have taken ARS 283. Enrollment limited to 15. Prerequisite: ARH 110 or equivalent. Instructor permission required.

Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required. This course is a permissions course, meaning all students are initially placed on the waitlist. Please read the course description to ensure you meet the listed prerequisites (if any). During November/April registration: The instructor will review the class roster and be in touch about enrollment once all students have had a chance to waitlist. There is nothing else you need to do in the meantime. Please do not submit a course waiver unless requested. During add/drop (Sept/Jan): You may register to the waitlist and contact the instructor about attending the first day of class. If you receive permission to take the course, you should submit a Course Eligibility Waiver.     

An introduction to visual experience through a study of the basic elements of photography as an expressive medium. Each section involves either black and white or a combination of darkroom and digital processes. Core studio materials are provided. Students are responsible for the purchase of additional supplies required for individual projects. Enrollment limited to 15. Prerequisite: ARS 162 or ARS 172 or equivalent. Instructor permission required.

Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required. This course is a permissions course, meaning all students are initially placed on the waitlist. Please read the course description to ensure you meet the listed prerequisites (if any). During November/April registration: The instructor will review the class roster and be in touch about enrollment once all students have had a chance to waitlist. There is nothing else you need to do in the meantime. Please do not submit a course waiver unless requested. During add/drop (Sept/Jan): You may register to the waitlist and contact the instructor about attending the first day of class. If you receive permission to take the course, you should submit a Course Eligibility Waiver.     

This course is an opportunity for students to expand upon their existing printmaking knowledge and learn how to combine multiple processes such as intaglio, relief, monotype and lithography. The class pays attention to the unique marks made by each process; considers the relationship between drawn, digital and photographic images in print; and uses the capacity to print multiples as a means to construct physical, social or narrative forms. Core studio materials are provided. Students are responsible for the purchase of additional supplies required for individual projects. Prerequisite: at least one 4-credit 200-level printmaking course or equivalent. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required.

Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required. This course is a permissions course, meaning all students are initially placed on the waitlist. Please read the course description to ensure you meet the listed prerequisites (if any). During November/April registration: The instructor will review the class roster and be in touch about enrollment once all students have had a chance to waitlist. There is nothing else you need to do in the meantime. Please do not submit a course waiver unless requested. During add/drop (Sept/Jan): You may register to the waitlist and contact the instructor about attending the first day of class. If you receive permission to take the course, you should submit a Course Eligibility Waiver.

This research-based architectural design studio utilizes digital processes to analyze and reinterpret canonical architectural precedents, linking the digital to fluid conceptual ideas which are both historic and contemporary. In particular, the studio probes the spatial qualities of the moving body—as a site of both deep interiority and hyper-connectivity. In a return to the territory of the ground (see ARS 280), and within the larger context of ecologically and geopolitically induced migration and displacement, this studio investigates themes related to mobility and transience and the ways in which the body traverses territories of ground. Core studio materials are provided. Students are responsible for the purchase of additional supplies required for individual projects. Enrollment limited to 15. Prerequisites: ARS 280 and ARS 281 or equivalent. Instructor permission required.

Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required. This course is a permissions course, meaning all students are initially placed on the waitlist. Please read the course description to ensure you meet the listed prerequisites (if any). During November/April registration: The instructor will review the class roster and be in touch about enrollment once all students have had a chance to waitlist. There is nothing else you need to do in the meantime. Please do not submit a course waiver unless requested. During add/drop (Sept/Jan): You may register to the waitlist and contact the instructor about attending the first day of class. If you receive permission to take the course, you should submit a Course Eligibility Waiver.     

This capstone course is required for all senior ARS majors. Students use the framework of the course to focus, challenge and re-conceptualize their studio work in media of their choice. Critiques, readings, written assignments, presentations and discussions support the development of an inventive and rigorous independent art practice. The semester culminates in a group exhibition. Core studio materials are provided. Students are responsible for the purchase of additional supplies required for individual projects. Restrictions: Seniors only; Smith College ARS majors only.

This course is a lecture series that serves as a “gateway” course to the Archives Concentration and an introduction to the methods and discoveries of archival research. The talks feature faculty members, archivists, scholars, and writers describing their own journeys, practices and insights in encountering archival materials. S/U only.

First half of semester course.

Discover how the forces of nature shape our understanding of the cosmos. Explore the origin, structure and evolution of the Earth, moons and planets, comets and asteroids, the Sun and other stars, star clusters, the Milky Way and other galaxies, clusters of galaxies, and the universe as a whole. Designed for nonscience majors. Enrollment limited to 50.

Discover how astronomers know about the universe by observing the light that comes to us from distant objects. View the sky with your naked eye, binoculars, and a small telescope. Take pictures with a professional telescope, and examine astronomical images. Designed for non-science majors. Enrollment limited to 20.

A comprehensive introduction to the study of modern astronomy, covering planets their origins, orbits, interiors, surfaces and atmospheres; stars their formation, structure and evolution; and the universe its origin, large-scale structure and ultimate destiny. This introductory course is for students who are planning to major in science or math. Prerequisite: MTH 111 or equivalent.

A calculus-based introduction to the observations and theoretical understanding of the structure and evolution of stars. Topics include astrometry, photometry, spectroscopy, the Planck function of thermal emission, cause of spectral emission and absorption lines, Boltzmann and Saha distributions of atomic energy levels and ionization states, the Hertzprung Russell diagram, binary stars and stellar mass determination, nuclear energy generation in stars, hydrodynamic equilibrium, equations of state, and the fates of stars. Prerequisites: [(PHY 117 and PHY 118) or PHY 119] and MTH 112.

This course provides an introduction to the techniques of gathering and analyzing astronomical data, with an emphasis on optical observations related to studying stellar evolution. Students use Smith’s telescopes and CCD cameras to collect and analyze their own data, using the Python computing language. Topics covered include astronomical coordinate and time systems; telescope design and optics; instrumentation and techniques for imaging and photometry; astronomical detectors; digital image processing tools and techniques; atmospheric phenomena affecting astronomical observations; and error analysis and curve fitting. Prerequisites: AST 226 or AST 235; and one physics course at the 200-level. Previous experience in computer programming strongly recommended.

Chemical dynamics in living systems. Enzyme mechanisms, metabolism and its regulation, energy production and utilization. Concurrent registration in BCH 353 is required for biochemistry majors. Prerequisites: BCH 252, CHM 223, CHM 224 and BIO 202.

Investigations of biochemical systems using experimental techniques in current biochemical research. Emphasis is on independent experimental design and execution. Corequisite: BCH 352. Prerequisite: BCH 252, CHM 223, CHM 224 and BIO 202. Enrollment limited to 12.

Investigations of biochemical systems using experimental techniques in current biochemical research. Emphasis is on independent experimental design and execution. Corequisite: BCH 352. Prerequisite: BCH 252, CHM 223, CHM 224 and BIO 202. Enrollment limited to 12.

An explicitly multidisciplinary introduction to the challenges, data , tools, and frameworks surrounding global health in the 21st century. Open to students of all majors, this course examines the biological, environmental, social, and political factors that dictate healthspans and lifespans at local, national, regional, and global scales. Students also explore the ways in which notions of health and disease are constructed, and the extent to which these definitions vary over time and culture. Most of the work in this course is done by small interdisciplinary groups. Enrollment limited to 40. Instructor permission required. (E)

Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required.

Course focuses on the intersection of plants and people. Topics include introduction to landscape plants and their usage, plants as food, plants as urban green infrastructure, garden design history and current issues such as the colonial history of botanic gardens, native vs. disruptive species, and community gardening. Course includes lectures, guest lecturers and in-class discussions. Corequisite: BIO 121. Enrollment limited to 32.

Identification, morphology and use of landscape plants including annuals, perennials, trees and shrubs, groundcovers and tropical plants. Use of the Botanic Garden outdoor collection as well as field trips are important components of the course. Course requirements include landscape design activities and creation of a Field Guide to plant materials covered in the course. Corequisite: BIO 120. Enrollment limited to 16.

Identification, morphology and use of landscape plants including annuals, perennials, trees and shrubs, groundcovers and tropical plants. Use of the Botanic Garden outdoor collection as well as field trips are important components of the course. Course requirements include landscape design activities and creation of a Field Guide to plant materials covered in the course. Corequisite: BIO 120. Enrollment limited to 16.

Students in this course investigate the origin, nature, and importance of the diversity of life on Earth, key ecological processes, and interactions that create and maintain communities and ecosystems, principal threats to biodiversity, and emerging conservation strategies to protect the elements and processes upon which humans depend. Throughout the semester, the course emphasizes the relevance of diversity and ecological studies in conservation. Concurrent registration in BIO 131 is recommended but not required. Enrollment limited to 20.

Students in this course investigate the origin, nature, and importance of the diversity of life on Earth, key ecological processes, and interactions that create and maintain communities and ecosystems, principal threats to biodiversity, and emerging conservation strategies to protect the elements and processes upon which humans depend. Throughout the semester, the course emphasizes the relevance of diversity and ecological studies in conservation. Concurrent registration in BIO 131 is recommended but not required. Enrollment limited to 20.

Students in this course investigate the origin, nature, and importance of the diversity of life on Earth, key ecological processes, and interactions that create and maintain communities and ecosystems, principal threats to biodiversity, and emerging conservation strategies to protect the elements and processes upon which humans depend. Throughout the semester, the course emphasizes the relevance of diversity and ecological studies in conservation. Concurrent registration in BIO 131 is recommended but not required. Enrollment limited to 20.

Students in this course investigate the origin, nature, and importance of the diversity of life on Earth, key ecological processes, and interactions that create and maintain communities and ecosystems, principal threats to biodiversity, and emerging conservation strategies to protect the elements and processes upon which humans depend. Throughout the semester, the course emphasizes the relevance of diversity and ecological studies in conservation. Concurrent registration in BIO 131 is recommended but not required. Enrollment limited to 20.

Students pull on their boots and explore local habitats that may include the Mill River, MacLeish Field Station, Smith campus Botanic Gardens and local hemlock forests. Students gain experience with a diversity of organisms by conducting research projects that can enhance their understanding of ecology and conservation. Students practice the scientific process and document their work in a lab notebook. Research skills developed include hypothesis development, data collection, statistical analysis and presentation of results. Because research projects vary seasonally, please see the Department of Biological Sciences website for more information. Concurrent registration in BIO 130 recommended.Enrollment limited to 16.

Students pull on their boots and explore local habitats that may include the Mill River, MacLeish Field Station, Smith campus Botanic Gardens and local hemlock forests. Students gain experience with a diversity of organisms by conducting research projects that can enhance their understanding of ecology and conservation. Students practice the scientific process and document their work in a lab notebook. Research skills developed include hypothesis development, data collection, statistical analysis and presentation of results. Because research projects vary seasonally, please see the Department of Biological Sciences website for more information. Concurrent registration in BIO 130 recommended.Enrollment limited to 16.

Students pull on their boots and explore local habitats that may include the Mill River, MacLeish Field Station, Smith campus Botanic Gardens and local hemlock forests. Students gain experience with a diversity of organisms by conducting research projects that can enhance their understanding of ecology and conservation. Students practice the scientific process and document their work in a lab notebook. Research skills developed include hypothesis development, data collection, statistical analysis and presentation of results. Because research projects vary seasonally, please see the Department of Biological Sciences website for more information. Concurrent registration in BIO 130 recommended.Enrollment limited to 16.

Students pull on their boots and explore local habitats that may include the Mill River, MacLeish Field Station, Smith campus Botanic Gardens and local hemlock forests. Students gain experience with a diversity of organisms by conducting research projects that can enhance their understanding of ecology and conservation. Students practice the scientific process and document their work in a lab notebook. Research skills developed include hypothesis development, data collection, statistical analysis and presentation of results. Because research projects vary seasonally, please see the Department of Biological Sciences website for more information. Concurrent registration in BIO 130 recommended.Enrollment limited to 16.

Students in this course investigate the structure, function and physiology of cells; the properties of biological molecules; information transfer from the level of DNA to cell-cell communication; and cellular energy generation and transfer. The development of multicellular organisms and the physiology of selected organ systems is also explored. In addition to attending lectures, each student participates in discussion sections that focus on data analysis and interpretation while integrating mechanisms across scales. Concurrent registration in BIO 133 recommended but not required. Enrollment limited to 78.

This section requires concurrent registration in discussion section BIO 132-D01, -D02, -D03 or -D04.

Students in this course investigate the structure, function and physiology of cells; the properties of biological molecules; information transfer from the level of DNA to cell-cell communication; and cellular energy generation and transfer. The development of multicellular organisms and the physiology of selected organ systems is also explored. In addition to attending lectures, each student participates in discussion sections that focus on data analysis and interpretation while integrating mechanisms across scales. Concurrent registration in BIO 133 recommended but not required. Enrollment for this section limited to 40.

This section requires concurrent registration in discussion section BIO 132-D05.

Students in this course investigate the structure, function and physiology of cells; the properties of biological molecules; information transfer from the level of DNA to cell-cell communication; and cellular energy generation and transfer. The development of multicellular organisms and the physiology of selected organ systems is also explored. In addition to attending lectures, each student participates in discussion sections that focus on data analysis and interpretation while integrating mechanisms across scales. Concurrent registration in BIO 133 recommended but not required. Enrollment limited to 78.

This section requires concurrent registration in lecture section BIO 132-01.

Students in this course investigate the structure, function and physiology of cells; the properties of biological molecules; information transfer from the level of DNA to cell-cell communication; and cellular energy generation and transfer. The development of multicellular organisms and the physiology of selected organ systems is also explored. In addition to attending lectures, each student participates in discussion sections that focus on data analysis and interpretation while integrating mechanisms across scales. Concurrent registration in BIO 133 recommended but not required. Enrollment limited to 78.

This section requires concurrent registration in lecture section BIO 132-01.

Students in this course investigate the structure, function and physiology of cells; the properties of biological molecules; information transfer from the level of DNA to cell-cell communication; and cellular energy generation and transfer. The development of multicellular organisms and the physiology of selected organ systems is also explored. In addition to attending lectures, each student participates in discussion sections that focus on data analysis and interpretation while integrating mechanisms across scales. Concurrent registration in BIO 133 recommended but not required. Enrollment limited to 78.

This section requires concurrent registration in lecture section BIO 132-01.

Students in this course investigate the structure, function and physiology of cells; the properties of biological molecules; information transfer from the level of DNA to cell-cell communication; and cellular energy generation and transfer. The development of multicellular organisms and the physiology of selected organ systems is also explored. In addition to attending lectures, each student participates in discussion sections that focus on data analysis and interpretation while integrating mechanisms across scales. Concurrent registration in BIO 133 recommended but not required. Enrollment limited to 78.

This section requires concurrent registration in lecture section BIO 132-01.

Students in this course investigate the structure, function and physiology of cells; the properties of biological molecules; information transfer from the level of DNA to cell-cell communication; and cellular energy generation and transfer. The development of multicellular organisms and the physiology of selected organ systems is also explored. In addition to attending lectures, each student participates in discussion sections that focus on data analysis and interpretation while integrating mechanisms across scales. Concurrent registration in BIO 133 recommended but not required. Enrollment for this section is limited to 40.

This section requires concurrent registration in discussion section BIO 132-02.

This laboratory course introduces students to biological discovery and the biological research process. Students gain hands-on experience with the use of modern biological research methods by participating in ongoing research with a variety of organisms. This includes scientific discovery, hypothesis development, data collection and analysis, as well as presentation of discoveries and results. Research projects vary with each Instructor. Concurrent registration in BIO 132 recommended but not required. Enrollment limited to 16.

This laboratory course introduces students to biological discovery and the biological research process. Students gain hands-on experience with the use of modern biological research methods by participating in ongoing research with a variety of organisms. This includes scientific discovery, hypothesis development, data collection and analysis, as well as presentation of discoveries and results. Research projects vary with each Instructor. Concurrent registration in BIO 132 recommended but not required. Enrollment limited to 16.

This laboratory course introduces students to biological discovery and the biological research process. Students gain hands-on experience with the use of modern biological research methods by participating in ongoing research with a variety of organisms. This includes scientific discovery, hypothesis development, data collection and analysis, as well as presentation of discoveries and results. Research projects vary with each Instructor. Concurrent registration in BIO 132 recommended but not required. Enrollment limited to 16.

This laboratory course introduces students to biological discovery and the biological research process. Students gain hands-on experience with the use of modern biological research methods by participating in ongoing research with a variety of organisms. This includes scientific discovery, hypothesis development, data collection and analysis, as well as presentation of discoveries and results. Research projects vary with each Instructor. Concurrent registration in BIO 132 recommended but not required. Enrollment limited to 16.

This laboratory course introduces students to biological discovery and the biological research process. Students gain hands-on experience with the use of modern biological research methods by participating in ongoing research with a variety of organisms. This includes scientific discovery, hypothesis development, data collection and analysis, as well as presentation of discoveries and results. Research projects vary with each Instructor. Concurrent registration in BIO 132 recommended but not required. Enrollment limited to 16.

In this course students learn how animal bodies function from the molecular to the organismal level and how the physiology of animals, including humans, has been shaped by evolution to enable survival in a wide range of environments. Course content is organized by body system (cardiovascular, respiratory, reproductive, etc.). Assignments provide opportunities for students to practice applying their knowledge of physiology to real-life situations, predicting the outcomes of experiments, and interpreting and writing about the primary literature. Concurrent registration in BIO 201 is recommended but not required. Prerequisites: BIO 132/ BIO 133 and CHM 111 or CHM 118. Enrollment limited to 60.

This course provides students with the opportunity to design and conduct experiments in human and animal physiology. Emphasis is on developing hypotheses, designing experiments, graphing data, interpreting results, and communicating in the scientific style. Prerequisite: BIO 200, may be taken concurrently. Enrollment limited to 18.

This course provides students with the opportunity to design and conduct experiments in human and animal physiology. Emphasis is on developing hypotheses, designing experiments, graphing data, interpreting results, and communicating in the scientific style. Prerequisite: BIO 200, may be taken concurrently. Enrollment limited to 18.

The structure and function of eukaryotic cells. This course examines contemporary topics in cellular biology: cellular structures, organelle function, membrane and endomembrane systems, cellular regulation, signaling mechanisms, motility, bioelectricity, communication and cellular energetics. This course is a prerequisite for BCH 252. Prerequisites: BIO 132/BIO 133 and CHM 222. BIO 203 is recommended but not required. Discussion sections limited to 15.

The structure and function of eukaryotic cells. This course examines contemporary topics in cellular biology: cellular structures, organelle function, membrane and endomembrane systems, cellular regulation, signaling mechanisms, motility, bioelectricity, communication and cellular energetics. This course is a prerequisite for BCH 252. Prerequisites: BIO 132/BIO 133 and CHM 222. BIO 203 is recommended but not required. Discussion sections limited to 15.

The structure and function of eukaryotic cells. This course examines contemporary topics in cellular biology: cellular structures, organelle function, membrane and endomembrane systems, cellular regulation, signaling mechanisms, motility, bioelectricity, communication and cellular energetics. This course is a prerequisite for BCH 252. Prerequisites: BIO 132/BIO 133 and CHM 222. BIO 203 is recommended but not required. Discussion sections limited to 15.

The structure and function of eukaryotic cells. This course examines contemporary topics in cellular biology: cellular structures, organelle function, membrane and endomembrane systems, cellular regulation, signaling mechanisms, motility, bioelectricity, communication and cellular energetics. This course is a prerequisite for BCH 252. Prerequisites: BIO 132/BIO 133 and CHM 222. BIO 203 is recommended but not required. Discussion sections limited to 15.

Inquiry-based laboratory using techniques such as spectrophotometry, enzyme kinetics, bright field and fluorescence light microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. The emphasis is on student-designed projects. This course is a prerequisite for BCH 253. Corequisite: BIO 202. Enrollment limited to 16.

Inquiry-based laboratory using techniques such as spectrophotometry, enzyme kinetics, bright field and fluorescence light microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. The emphasis is on student-designed projects. This course is a prerequisite for BCH 253. Corequisite: BIO 202. Enrollment limited to 16.

Inquiry-based laboratory using techniques such as spectrophotometry, enzyme kinetics, bright field and fluorescence light microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. The emphasis is on student-designed projects. This course is a prerequisite for BCH 253. Corequisite: BIO 202. Enrollment limited to 16.

A laboratory designed to give students an introduction to genomics and the molecular biology of genetics. Students gain experience with a variety of classical and modern techniques used in human genetic analysis and several experiments using students' DNA are performed throughout the semester. Laboratory and computer-based projects include PCR, restriction analysis and DNA sequencing as well as contemporary bioinformatics and genome database analyses. Prerequisite: BIO 230 or BIO 232 must be taken concurrently. Enrollment limited to 16.

A laboratory designed to give students an introduction to genomics and the molecular biology of genetics. Students gain experience with a variety of classical and modern techniques used in human genetic analysis and several experiments using students' DNA are performed throughout the semester. Laboratory and computer-based projects include PCR, restriction analysis and DNA sequencing as well as contemporary bioinformatics and genome database analyses. Prerequisite: BIO 230 or BIO 232 must be taken concurrently. Enrollment limited to 16.

Evolution frames much of biology by providing insights into how and why things change over time. For example, the study of evolution is essential to: understanding transitions in biodiversity across time and space, elucidating patterns of genetic variation within and between populations, and developing both vaccines and treatments for human diseases. Topics in this course include population genetics, molecular evolution, speciation, phylogenetics and macroevolution. Concurrent registration in BIO 231 recommended. Prerequisite: BIO 130 or BIO 132 or equivalent.

This general ecology course provides a conceptual foundation for understanding ecological processes from population dynamics to ecosystem function. Fundamental ecological concepts are covered within the context of current environmental challenges arising from global change. This framing illuminates how population dynamics, community composition and trophic interactions affect ecosystem function and ecosystem services. Corequisite: BIO 267. Prerequisite: BIO 130 or an equivalent course in ecology or environmental science. Enrollment limited to 18.

This general ecology laboratory course provides hands-on experience in the execution of ecological experiments in the field. Students participate in study design, data curation, analysis and interpretation. All statistical analyses is conducted in R. Corequisite: BIO 266. Enrollment limited to 18.

The oceans cover over 75 percent of the Earth and are home to enormous biodiversity. Marine Ecology explores a variety of coastal and oceanic systems, focusing on natural and human-induced factors that affect biodiversity and the ecological balance in marine habitats. Using case studies, the class studies some successful conservation and management strategies, including Marine Protected Areas. This course uses a variety of readings, group activities and short writing assignments to develop vital skills such as effective oral, graphical and written communication; critical thinking; and problem solving. Enrollment limited to 24. Corequisite: BIO 269.

The laboratory applies concepts discussed in lecture and uses several small-group projects in the field and laboratory to develop relevant skills for conducting marine-related research. Students learn to design and analyze experiments and to write in the scientific style. Field trips to Rhode Island and Cape Cod, MA provide hands-on experience with marine organisms in their natural habitats. Corequisite: BIO 268. Enrollment limited to 12.

The laboratory applies concepts discussed in lecture and uses several small-group projects in the field and laboratory to develop relevant skills for conducting marine-related research. Students learn to design and analyze experiments and to write in the scientific style. Field trips to Rhode Island and Cape Cod, MA provide hands-on experience with marine organisms in their natural habitats. Corequisite: BIO 268. Enrollment limited to 12.

Fundamental concepts of nervous system function at the cellular level (electrical signals, membrane potentials, propagation, synapses) and also the systems level (motor control, generating behavior, perception of visual form, color and movement). This course provides a strong foundation for BIO 310 and NSC 318. See website (tinyurl.com/bio300) for full syllabus. Prerequisites: BIO 200 or 202 or NSC 210.

How does a single cell give rise to the complexity and diversity of cells and forms that make up humans? Developmental biology answers this question by spanning disciplines from cell biology and genetics to ecology and evolution. The remarkable phenomena that occur during embryonic development is presented in concert with the experiments underlying the current knowledge. This is an interactive class experience using “flipped classroom” approaches as well as web conferencing with the prominent developmental biologists whose research the class covers. Prerequisites: BIO 132 and (BIO 202 or BIO 230). BIO 130 recommended.

How does a single cell give rise to the complexity and diversity of cells and forms that make up humans? Developmental biology answers this question by spanning disciplines from cell biology and genetics to ecology and evolution. The remarkable phenomena that occur during embryonic development is presented in concert with the experiments underlying the current knowledge. This is an interactive class experience using “flipped classroom” approaches as well as web conferencing with the prominent developmental biologists whose research the class covers. Prerequisites: BIO 132 and (BIO 202 or BIO 230). BIO 130 recommended.

Instrument specific course highly recommended for students interested in using state-of-the-art microscopy techniques in research (special studies, honors, SURF, etc.). Participants get exposure to basic and advanced light and electron microscopy techniques available at Smith. Mechanical and optical components are reviewed. Operational parameters for improving image quality and data collection using digital imaging and image analysis techniques are discussed. Emphasis is on the use of these exciting technologies performing quality and up-to-date research in many disciplines ranging from the live science and geology to art and engineering. Evaluation is through engagement in assigned activities. 400-level work cannot overlap with this course work. S/U only. Restrictions: BIO 314 may not be repeated. Enrollment limited to 12.

While not considered living organisms, the recent COVID and recurrent and threatening influenza pandemics show the havoc viruses can wreak; these unique acellular microbes are the emphasis in this seminar. This course examines the impact of infectious diseases on society. New pathogens are constantly being identified while existing pathogens have warranted increased investigation for multiple reasons, including as causative agents of pandemics, chronic disease or cancer; as increased threats due to multidrug resistance or immune evasion of current immunotherapies; as disease agents that disproportionately impact certain populations; and as agents of bioterrorism. Specific emphasis on the molecular basis of virulence in a variety of organisms is addressed along with the diseases they cause and the public health measures taken to address these pathogens. Prerequisites: BIO 202, BIO 204, BIO 230 or BIO 232, or equivalent. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required.

Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required.

Ongoing developments in high-throughput sequencing technologies have made genomic analysis a central feature of many scientific disciplines, including forensics, medicine, ecology and evolution. This course reviews the scope and applications of genome sequencing projects. After completing the course, students are prepared to design a high-throughput sequencing project and interpret the results of genomic analysis. Corequisite: BIO 337. Prerequisite: BIO 230 or BIO 232. Enrollment limited to 15.

This lab covers genomic analysis pipelines from nucleic acid isolation to sequence analysis in Linux and R environments. Students independently design and execute a high-throughput sequencing experiment to measure genetic variation in natural populations. Corequisite: BIO 336. Prerequisite: BIO 230, BIO 232 or equivalent. Enrollment limited to 15.

This colloquium explores a class of phenomena broadly categorized as “resistance.” Specifically, the course asks whether the heterogeneous settings in which that term arises suggest a single underlying mechanism leading to resistance, or conversely, whether disparate phenomena have been inappropriately grouped together under a single rubric. Resistance is a concept has been evoked at all levels of biological (and non-biological) organization, from the viral to the political. The class selects a subset of the settings in which resistance is seen as an important phenomenon and dissects the mechanisms responsible for the origin and spread of resistance. Students explore the phenomena from mechanistic, ecological, and evolutionary perspectives in hopes of detecting both important similarities and telling differences. Enrollment limited to 24. Instructor permission required.

Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required.

There is increasing evidence of epigenetic phenomena influencing the development of organisms and the transmission of information between generations. These epigenetic phenomena include the inheritance of acquired morphological traits in some lineages and the apparent transmission of RNA caches between generations in plants, animals and microbes. This seminar explores emerging data on epigenetics and discusses the impact of these phenomena on evolution. Participants write an independent research paper on a topic of their choice. Prerequisite: BIO 230, BIO 232 or equivalent. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 15. Instructor permission required.

Permission Required/Registration by Waitlist. During Add/Drop, Waiver Required.

Diverse fields from ecology to neuroscience rely on measures of animal behavior to reveal new insights into how individuals interact with their physical and social environments. Scientists integrate both high-tech (remote imaging, AI) and low-tech (human observation) solutions to record, track, and analyze patterns of behavior in the wild and in the lab. This course gives students experience with several methods of quantifying and analyzing animal behavior in both field-based and lab-based investigations. Students develop and conduct an independent research project and practice interpreting their own data.  Prerequisites: SDS 201, SDS 210, or SDS 220. Enrollment limited to 15.

This course surveys the environmental factors, historical processes and ecological interactions that influence the distribution and abundance of plant species in the landscape and informs conservation of rare and threatened plant species. The class examines how plant communities are assembled and what processes influence their structure and diversity, including past and present human activities, climate change and exotic species. The class focuses in particular on plants and plant communities of the Northeast U.S., using examples from the local landscape to illustrate key ecological concepts and approaches to plant conservation. Corequisite: BIO 365. Prerequisite: a course in plant biology, ecology or environmental science; statistics is recommended (e.g., SDS 220). Enrollment limited to 20.

This lab course involves field and laboratory investigations of plant ecology and conservation, with an emphasis on Northeastern plant species and plant communities. The labs explore interactions between plants and insects, visit wetland and upland habitats and investigate plant population dynamics at sites around western Massachusetts. Students gain hands-on experience with descriptive and experimental research approaches used to investigate ecological processes in plant communities and inform conservation of plant biodiversity. Corequisite: BIO 364. Enrollment limited to 20.