Course Syllabus
SCI 6319, Astronomy and the Cosmos
Independent Study
3 Credit Hour

Instructor	Paul Kruse
Office	Naples, FL
Email	kruse@ameschristian.org

Course Learning Resources:

The Gospel in the Stars, Seiss, Joseph
Purchase

He Made the Stars Also, Burgess, Stewart
Purchase

See Resources page for additional online resources.

Course Description

Studies current information and theories concerning earth, moon, sun, planets, stars, pulsars, quasars, black holes, galaxies, and the structure of the universe. Concepts of space and time are considered. The impact of contemporary astronomical discoveries in light of theological principles is explored.

Course Learning Objectives
1. Be aware of the key celestial features of the known universe;
2. Be conversant about the nature and makeup of the earth, moon, sun, planets, stars and other space objects;
3. Understand the important concepts and terms involved in analyzing the physical universe;
4. Be aware of concepts underlying space and time;
5. Be knowledgeable about contemporary astronomical discoveries;
6. Be able to articulate a spiritual perspective of the cosmos, from a Christian world view.

Course Policies

Attendance
This is a 90 day independent study course, and is designed to be primarily self-paced. Its requirements include assignments and tests that you will complete and submit via the Internet.

Email and Internet contact are available to answer questions, engage in discussion and provide assistance as needed.

Your assignments should be submitted as file attachments in either Microsoft Word or HTML format. Each assignment will be evaluated, graded, and returned with feedback. Values for each assignment and test are provided in a table below.

Timing
Please be sure to time your assignments so that you have adequate time to complete the work in 90 days. Course tests are sent to you after you complete specific assignments (please see Test page), so be sure to give yourself enough space to pace the work comfortably.

Communication
As an independent study course, this is a more self-paced exercise than a scheduled class might be. However, discussion is still important. Please feel free to use the email address provided for questions, comments, and concerns about the course.

Evaluation Material

Assignments and Tests
There are 6 assignments, including a final paper. There are three tests, including a final exam. The tests are sent to you after you have submitted sequential assignments, as outlined on the Test page.

Grade Components

Individual assignments: 10% each (50% of total)
Final paper: 20% of total
Test I: 5% of total
Test II: 5% of total
Final Exam: 20% of total

Grading Scale