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| School of Science and Computer Engineering |
SCHOOL OF SCIENCE AND COMPUTER ENGINEERING
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The School of Science and Computer Engineering (SCE) offers high quality academic degrees consistent with the role of a regional public university. Plans within the school prepare graduates to enter fields in natural sciences, mathematics, computing and computer and software engineering. Individuals in the school's plans are expected to develop skills in problem solving, independent study and critical thinking, and to be able to adapt knowledge to new situations and to the benefit of society. Students in these plans attain a sense of professional values and ethics as well as knowledge and skills relevant to their specific subject area. This sense of professional responsibility is essential if society is to benefit from the interfaces with advanced technology and science.
The school supports research and development directed toward producing new knowledge and identifying additional applications of existing knowledge. Dissemination of scientific knowledge through publications and presentations is encouraged, as well as professional service to local, regional, national and international communities.
The School of Science and Computer Engineering has three divisions; the Division of Computing and Mathematics, the Division of Engineering and the Division of Natural Sciences. The faculty of each division aspires to a professional model that includes balance among the components of the SCE mission: teaching, research and service.
The Division Chair of Computing and Mathematics coordinates the plans in Computer Information Systems, Computer Science, Mathematical Sciences and Statistics. The undergraduate degree plans in Computer Science and Computer Information Systems are accredited by the Computer Accreditation Commission of ABET, Inc.
The Division Chair of Engineering coordinates the plans in Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Systems Engineering and Engineering Management. Support areas include telecommunications, robotics, control systems, industrial modeling, mathematical modeling and petrochemical processes. The undergraduate degree plan in Computer Engineering is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, Inc.
The Division Chair of Natural Sciences coordinates the plans in Biological Sciences, Biotechnology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Physics and Physical Sciences. Sub-plans or specialization areas include physiology/pre-health, cell/molecular, ecology/microbiology, biotechnology, environmental chemistry, environmental geology, environmental biology, industrial hygiene, safety and technical management. The Chemistry Program has complete accreditation from the American Chemical Society (ACS).
Following admission to the university, students' transcript evaluations are forwarded to the Office of Student Advising. Some undergraduate plans and all graduate plans require that faculty admissions committees review the students' files and determine whether students will be accepted into degree plans. Students are notified of their admission status by the associate dean. Once accepted to a degree plan, students meet with academic advisers and faculty who assist students in completing a Candidate Plan of Study (CPS). The CPS delineates specific requirements of a study area and must be completed during the semester of acceptance into a degree plan.
In general, no more than 12 hours of course work for an undergraduate degree and 9 hours for a graduate degree taken at University of Houston-Clear Lake prior to completion of a CPS may be applied toward any degree in the school. These hours, along with the hours accumulated during the semester the CPS is being finalized, will be evaluated for acceptance by the faculty adviser and approved by the associate dean.
Undergraduate students are required to satisfy the university undergraduate degree requirements described earlier in this catalog. Students pursuing bachelor of arts degrees or bachelor of science degrees must complete a minimum of 120 semester hours.
Courses noted on the CPS as academic core courses must be completed with a grade of "C-" or better. Some plans may require a grade of "C" or better in courses taken in the academic core.
The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is required of all students applying for admission to a graduate plan in the school. Computer Information Systems is the only plan that accepts Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) in lieu of the GRE. It is recommended that students who apply for admission to a graduate plan have a grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.000 (four point grade scale) on the last 60 hours of course work. GRE scores will be evaluated by the degree plan's admissions committee and will be used as one of the indicators of the applicant's potential for completion of the plan to which he/she has applied. Individual degree plans may specify additional qualifications (see individual plan descriptions).
All graduate degrees in the School of Science and Computer Engineering require 30-36 hours depending on specific plan requirements, a minimum of 30 hours must be graduate courses. No more than six hours of upper-level credit will be allowed in any master's degree. A maximum of six hours of Independent Study may be applied to any master's degree. A maximum of six hours of grades within the range of "C+," or "C" may be counted toward any graduate degree.
Students selecting the thesis option must select a committee and submit a formal thesis proposal to the Office of the Dean prior to enrolling for thesis courses. The thesis committee will consist of at least three members, two of whom must be full-time UHCL faculty members. A fulltime faculty member of the School of Science and Computer Engineering will serve as the chair of the committee. The Office of the Dean will notify students, chairs and committee members of approval of the committee composition. The chair will report the final grades.
Students must register for the appropriate thesis research course no later than the first long semester after the dean has accepted the proposal. See the Master's Degree Option: Master's Thesis section of this catalog for more information.
University and SCE guidelines and procedures relating to the graduate thesis committee, thesis proposal, the thesis document and defense are described in the Graduate Thesis Guidelines and Procedures Manual available in the Office of the Dean.
All graduate plans in the school offering this option require a capstone course. See the particular plan area for the specific extended course work option requirements.
Some plans offer an internship option. See the particular plan of interest.
Some plans offer a research project course option. See the particular plan of interest.
Students desiring to study in the computing sciences may choose any one of five undergraduate or four graduate plans. Applicants should consult the chair of the division for additional information.
An SCE admission committee reviews all applications. Students entering any of the undergraduate computing plans should have a cumulative GPA of 2.500 (four-point grade scale) or better in lower-level or transfer courses. Students with a GPA of less than 2.500 are encouraged to provide a written statement or additional material that will assist the admission committee in determining the individual's potential for success in upper-level courses.
All core courses require a grade of "C-" or better.
Students seeking graduate degree candidacy should have a bachelor's degree in a related field. To be accepted for degree candidacy, students should be within 15 hours of completing upper-level foundation courses. These courses are listed in the particular degree area in the catalog. All foundation courses must be completed within one calendar year of first graduate registration at UHCL. Students needing more than 15 hours of upper-level foundation courses are encouraged to complete a second bachelor's degree.
The plan in Computer Information Systems (CIS) leads to a bachelor of science (BS) degree. This plan prepares students to hold technical, administration and management positions in the analysis, design, implementation, maintenance, operation and management of computer-based information systems. It is based on a broad general education and upper-level studies in computer science and other areas related to information systems, such as management, communication and accounting.
The learning objectives of the CIS program strike a balance between theory and practice of computer science and information systems. This balance satisfies both regional and national needs. Students graduating from the CIS program are equipped with not only sound technical knowledge and skills, but also understanding of the Information Systems (IS) environments.
Objectives
The CIS program at the University of Houston-Clear Lake is one of the few information systems programs in Texas accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, 111 Market Place, Suite 1050, Baltimore, MD 21202-4012, telephone: (410) 347-7700.
Students must complete the following courses or their equivalents in preparation for upper-level study:
| Accounting | 3 hours |
| Business Calculus or Calculus I | 3-4 hours |
| *Statistics*Principles of Management or Management Theory and Practice | 3 hours3 hours |
| Economics | 3 hours |
| Three additional hours of Accounting or Economics | 3 hours |
| *Computer Programming in Pascal or Visual Basic | 3 hours |
*Courses available at UHCL.
Students must meet these core requirements or approved upper-level substitutes:
| CSCI 3133 | Programming with C | CSCI 3134 | Software Development with Java |
| CINF 3331 | Business Data Communications | CINF 4234 | Modern Systems Analysis and Design |
| CINF 3231 | IS Theory & Practice | CINF 4230 | Web Application Development |
| CINF 4634 | Computer Systems Administration | CINF 4838 | Senior Projects in CIS |
| CSCI 3333 | Data Structures | CSCI 3331 | Computer Organization & Assembly Language |
| DSCI 3131 | Quantitative Methods for Mgmt | MATH 3331 | Discrete Math |
| CSCI 4333 | Design of Data Base Systems | SWEN 4432 | Software Engineering |
Note: Lower-level credit given for any of the above courses may require students to take additional approved technical electives to satisfy the plan requirements.
| *Business electives (6 hours) Note: The elected courses should not have major overlap with CSCI or CINF courses listed in the student's CPS. For example, ISAM 3331 (Intro. To Business Databases), ISAM 4331 (Internet App in Business) and ISAM 4635 (Analysis & Design of Business Systems) are NOT appropriate business electives for CIS students. |
| *CINF/CSCI/CENG/SWEN courses (6 hours) |
| **A communication course |
| WRIT 3132 Written Communications in Business (3 hours) or |
| COMM 4233 Speech Communication: Theory and PracticeApproved elective: CSCI, CINF or WRIT 3135 (3 hours) |
*The specific courses beyond the core requirements to be included in the Candidate Plan of Study (CPS) will be selected by students with the approval of the faculty adviser.
**This requirement is in addition to the technical writing course requirement of SCE.
Students interested in developing a sub-plan in web applications and E-commerce should consider the following as electives:
| CSCI 4135 | Adv Software Dev with .Net Framework and C# | CINF 4334 | Electronic Commerce |
Students interested in developing a sub-plan in computer systems and security should consider the following as electives:
| CSCI 4134 | Adv Software Design with Java | CINF/CSCI 4233 | Computer Security |
| CSCI 4534 | Operating Systems | CSCI 4132 | Network Protocols |
Students interested in developing a sub-plan in telecommunications should consider the following as electives:
| CSCI 4132 | Network Protocols | CENG 4231 | Telecom Switching Systems |
| CENG 4131 | Telecom Net Devices |
The following study plan for the four regular semesters is recommended as a typical example for incoming full-time CIS students. Individual study plans may vary as long as the prerequisite structures are satisfied. Students should seek the advice of their assigned faculty adviser and set up their Candidate Plan of Study (CPS) as early as possible.
| CSCI 3333 | Data Structures | CINF 3231 | IS Theory & Practice |
| MATH 3331 | Discrete Mathematics | CSCI 3134 | Software Dev with Java |
| Business elective | |||
| CINF 3331 | Business Data Communications | CSCI 3331 | Computer Organization & Assembly Language |
| SWEN 4432 | Software Engineering | CSCI 4333 | Design of Database Sys |
| COMM elective |
| CINF 4230 | Web App Develop | CINF 4234 Modern Systems Analysis and Design | |
| CINF 4634 | Comp Sys Admin | CINF/CSCI/CSEN/SWEN elective | |
| DSCI 3131 | Quant Methods for Management |
| CINF 4838 | Senior Project in CIS | CINF/CSCI/CSEN/SWEN elective |
| CINF/CSCI/CSEN/SWEN elective | Business elective | |
The plan in Computer Science (CS) leads to a bachelor of science (BS) degree. This plan emphasizes the development of the skills and analytical abilities necessary to specify, design and develop computer-based solutions to complex systems problems. Students receive extensive instruction in software and hardware principles; in scientific, industrial and commercial applications; and in the supporting mathematical tools. The curriculum allows students to develop a broad background in computer science areas relating to system and application software development.
The learning objectives of the CS program strike a balance between theory and practice of computer science. Students graduating from the CS program are equipped with not only sound technical knowledge and skills, but also strong computer science fundamentals.
Objectives
The Computer Science program at the University of Houston-Clear Lake is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, 111 Market Place, Suite 1050, Baltimore, MD 21202-4012, telephone: (410) 347-7700.
Students must complete the following courses or their equivalents in preparation for core requirements:
| *Linear Algebra | 3 hours |
| Calculus I & II | 8 hours |
| *Ordinary Differential Equations | 3 hours |
| *Calculus Based Physics with lab | 6-8 hours |
| General Chemistry | 3-4 hours |
| *Computer Programming in Pascal or Visual Basic | 3 hours |
| *Computer Programming in C or C++ | 3 hours |
* Courses available at UHCL that can be taken while concurrently enrolled in a Community College.
Students must take the following courses or their approved substitutes:
| CENG 3112 | Lab for Digital Circuits | CSCI 3331 | Comp Organization & Assembly Language |
| CENG 3132 | Digital Circuits | CSCI 3333 | Data Structures |
| CENG 3311 | Lab for Telecom & Networks | CSCI 3532 | Adv Data Struc & Algorithms |
| CENG 3331 | Intro to Telecom & Networks | CSCI 4333 | Design of Database Systems |
| CENG 3511 | Lab for Computer Architecture | CSCI 4534 | Operating Systems |
| CENG 3531 | Comp Arch: Minis & Micros | MATH 3331 | Discrete Math |
| CSCI 3134 | Software Dev with Java | MATH 3334 | Prob & Stat for Sci & Eng |
| CSCI 3231 | Numerical Methods | SWEN 4432 | Software Engineering |
| CSCI 3233 | Object-Oriented Design & Prog | CSCI 4838 | Senior Project in Computer Science |
In addition to the core requirements, students must also take the following:
| CSCI courses | 6 hours |
| Approved CSCI, CINF or other related electives | 6 hours |
The following study plan for four regular semesters is recommended as a typical example for incoming full-time CS students. Individual study plans may vary as long as the prerequisite structures are satisfied. Students should seek the advice of their assigned faculty adviser and set up their Candidate Plan of Study (CPS) as early as possible. The plan includes 48 hours of required core and 12 hours of required electives. Students must take all courses or their approved substitutes.
| CENG 3132 / CENG 3112 | Digital Circuits and Laboratory |
| CSCI 3134 | Software Dev with Java |
Note: The above courses should be taken before the start of the junior year at UHCL (no later than summer of sophomore year).
| CENG 3331 / CENG 3311 | Intro to Telecom & Networks and Laboratory |
| CSCI 3233 | Object-Oriented Design and Programming |
| CSCI 3333 | Data Structures |
| MATH 3331 | Discrete Mathematics |
| CSCI 3331 | Computer Organization and Assembly Language |
| CENG 3531 / CENG 3511 | Comp Arch: Minis & Micros and Laboratory |
| CSCI 3532 | Advanced Data Structures and Algorithms |
| MATH 3334 | Prob & Stat for Sci & Eng |
| SWEN 4432 | Software Engineering |
| CSCI 3231 | Numerical Methods |
| CSCI 4333 | Design of Database Systems |
Approved CSCI, CINF or other related elective
Approved CSCI, CINF or other related elective
| CSCI 4534 | Operating Systems |
Approved CSCI, CINF or other related elective
Approved CSCI, CINF or other related elective
| CSCI 4838 | Senior Project in Computer Science |
Graduate studies in Computer Information Systems lead to a master of science (MS) degree. This plan is designed to prepare students for key technical, administration and management positions in the analysis, design, implementation, maintenance, operation and management of industrial and commercial computer information systems.
Students aspiring to graduate degree candidacy must have a bachelor's degree in a related area and a background in Computer Information Systems. Preparatory requirements are proficiency in at least two high level languages, including an object-oriented programming language such as Java, C++ or C#, and the following undergraduate course:
Calculus I or Business Calculus
Upper-level foundation course requirements:
| CSCI 4333 | Design of Database Systems | CSCI 3331 | Comp Org & Assembly Lang |
| MATH 3331 | Discrete Mathematics | CSCI 3333 | Data Structures |
| SWEN 4432 | Software Engineering | CINF 3331 | Business Data Communications(or CENG 3331 + CENG 3311) |
| CSCI 4230 | Web App Development |
None of the above courses may apply to the graduate degree.
Students may select from the thesis option or the extended course work option. The thesis option requires 33 credit hours of graduate work and the extended course work option requires 36 credit hours.
The following courses, or approved substitutions are required for both the thesis option and extended course work options:
| CSCI 5132 | Internet Protocols |
| CSCI 5333 | Database Management Systems |
| CSCI 6530 | Research Methods in Computer Science |
| CENG/CINF/CSCI/SWEN or other approved related courses | 6 hours |
| CINF/CSCI 4000-6000 level | 3 hours |
| *CINF/CSCI courses, 5100-6000 level | 9 hours |
| CSCI 6939 Master's Thesis Research | 6 hours |
* Students interested in pursuing the thesis option are encouraged to take CINF 5939 (Independent Study in CIS) during their first year, in order to write up their thesis proposals (with the sponsoring of a faculty adviser).
Students desiring to follow the extended course work option must successfully complete the capstone project course.
| CINF/CSCI | 4000-6000 | 6 hours |
| CINF/CSCI | 5100-6000 | 12 hours |
| CINF/CSCI | 6838 Research Project and Seminar (taken after completion of the required core and during last 12 hours) | 3 hours |
Students interested in developing a sub-plan in Database Systems and Web-based Systems should take the following electives:
| CSCI 5433 | Object-Oriented Database Systems |
| CSCI 5533 | Distributed Information Systems |
| CSCI 5633 | Web Database Development |
| CSCI 5733 | XML Application Development |
| CSCI 5833 | Data Mining: Tools and Techniques |
Students interested in developing a sub-plan in Networking and Security should take the following electives:
| CENG 5333 | Network Performance Analysis |
| CSCI 5233 | Computer Security and Integrity |
| CSCI 5234 | Web Security |
| CSCI 5235 | Network Security |
| CSCI 5431 | Client-Server Based Network Programming |
| CSCI 5531 | Advanced Operating Systems |
Suggested Plan of Study (for students in the Thesis Option)
The following study plan for the four regular semesters is recommended as a typical example for incoming full-time CIS students who plan to pursue the Thesis option. Individual study plans may vary as long as the prerequisite structures are satisfied. Students should seek the advice of their assigned faculty adviser and set up their Candidate Plan of Study (CPS) as early as possible.
| CSCI 5132 | Internet Protocols |
| CSCI 5333 | Database Management Systems |
| CINF/CSCI | 4000-6000 level |
| CINF/ CSCI | 4000-6000 level |
| CSCI 6530 | Research Methods in Computer Science |
| CINF/CSCI 5939 | Independent Study |
| CENG/CINF/SWEN or other approved related courses | |
| CINF/CSCI | 5100-6000 level |
| CINF/CSCI 6939 | Master's Thesis Research |
| CINF/CSCI | 5100-6000 level |
| CINF/CSCI 6939 | Master's Thesis Research |
The plan in Computer Science leads to the master of science (MS) degree. This plan is designed to prepare students to hold key technical positions in the development of computer-based solutions to complex systems problems.
Students seeking admission into the degree plan in Computer Science must have a bachelor's degree in computer science or a closely related area and extensive background in computer science. It is expected that the minimum GRE score required for acceptance into the plan be reasonably balanced amongst the different components of the GRE exam. Students with bachelor's and master's degrees in related fields of study will be required to complete appropriate background courses. The admissions committee, during evaluation of the student's application, will designate courses to be completed before beginning graduate studies. Preparatory requirements include proficiency in at least two modular computer programming languages, including C or C++, plus the completion of the following undergraduate courses, their equivalents or successful completion of equivalence exams upon approval from the admissions committee.
Calculus II (Not offered at UHCL)
| CENG 3511 | Lab for Computer Architecture | CSCI 4333 | Design of Database Systems |
| CENG 3531 | Comp Arch: Minis & Micros | CSCI 4534 | Operating Systems |
| CSCI 3331 | Comp Org & Assembly Lang | MATH 3131 | Introduction to Linear Algebra |
| CSCI 3333 | Data Structures | SWEN 4432 | Software Engineering |
| CSCI 3532 | Adv Data Structures & Algorithms | ||
Additionally, at least two of the following must be completed:
| CSCI 3231 | Numerical Methods |
| PHYS 3032 | University Physics II |
| MATH 3331 | Discrete Mathematics |
| MATH 3334 | Probability and Statistics for Scientists & Engineers |
| MATH 4131 | Ordinary Differential Equations and Applications |
None of the above courses may apply towards the graduate degree.
Students should consult with their faculty adviser to determine if they have sufficient background to satisfy a specific course prerequisite. Foundation and prerequisite courses should be completed before enrolling in any graduate course.
Students expecting credit for foundation courses completed at international institutions must submit course descriptions. This will allow proper evaluation and appropriate credit.
Students may select from the thesis option or the extended course work option. The thesis option requires 33 credit hours of graduate work. The extended course work option requires 36 credit hours.
The following courses or their approved substitutions are required for both the thesis and the extended course work options:
| CSCI 5333 | DBMS |
| CSCI 5531 | Advanced Operating Systems |
| CSCI 6530 | Research Methods in Computer Science |
One of the following:
| CSCI 5232 | Concepts of Programming Languages |
| CSCI 5432 | Design and Analysis of Algorithms |
Required courses for thesis option.
| CSCI/CINF/SWEN/CENG/SENG 4000-6000 | 3 hours |
| CSCI electives | 3 hours |
| CSCI/CINF electivesCINF/SWEN/CENG/SENG electives | 3 hours6 hours |
| CSCI 6939 Master's Thesis Research | 6 hours |
Complete the following courses:
| CSCI/CINF/SWEN/CENG/SENG | 4000-6000 | 6 hours |
| CSCI electives | 6 hours | |
| CSCI/CINF electives | 6 hours | |
| CINF/SWEN/CENG/SENG electives | 3 hours | |
| CSCI 6838 | Research Project and Seminar | 3 hours |
NOTE: CSCI 6838 MUST BE TAKEN DURING THE LAST 12 HOURS, AFTER COMPLETION OF CSCI 5531 AND CSCI 5333.
Students interested in developing a sub-plan should take the corresponding courses listed below:
Sub-plan in database systems:
| CSCI | 5433 | Object-Oriented Database Systems |
| CSCI | 5533 | Distributed Information Systems |
| CSCI | 5633 | Web Database Development |
| CSCI | 5733 | XML Application Development |
| CSCI | 5833 | Data Mining: Tools and Techniques |
Sub-plan in Network Performance and Security:
| CENG | 5333 | Network Performance Analysis |
| CSCI | 5132 | Internet Protocols |
| CSCI | 5233 | Computer Security and Integrity |
| CSCI | 5234 | Web Security |
| CSCI | 5235 | Network Security |
| CSCI | 5631 | N-Tiered Client-Server Architecture |
Sub-plan in Data Mining and Computational Bioinformatics:
| BIOT | 5733 | Bioinformatics |
| CENG | 5634 | Artificial Neural Networks |
| CSCI | 5530 | Pattern Classification |
| CSCI | 5532 | Pattern Recognition and Image Processing |
| CSCI | 5833 | Data Mining: Tools and Techniques |
| CSCI | 5933 | Computational Bioinformatics |
The Computer Science Department of Texas A&M University is accepting applications for the PhD plan from interested UHCL graduates. The degree requirements include minimal residence at the Texas A&M campus. Texas A&M University maintains the same entrance standards for all applicants. This case by case plan supports research within the Clear Lake area technical community. Individuals may contact the Chair of the UHCL Computer Science plan for details.
The plan in Mathematical Science leads to the bachelor of arts (BA) or bachelor of science (BS) degree. The undergraduate degree is designed to prepare the student for a career in industry or education, or to prepare the student for graduate study in mathematics, statistics, operations research or other mathematically based disciplines. The plan includes courses in both the classical foundations of mathematics and the modern concern with numerical issues spawned by the computer.
Students who are seeking teaching certification will follow the degree plan and certification on notated pages. Please consult the School of Education for 4-8 degree and certification as well as for 8-12 degree and certification.
Applicants for the BA in Mathematical Science should have completed these courses in preparation for core requirements:
| Calculus I,II | 8 hours |
| *Calculus III | 3-4 hours |
| *Natural Science | 6 hours |
| *Scientific Programming Language | 3 hours |
*Courses available at UHCL.
If lower-level credit is given for any of the following courses, additional upper-level course work selected from the list of electives will be required. In addition to the three-semester calculus sequence, students must complete the following courses:
| MATH 3131 | Introduction to Linear Algebra |
| MATH 4030 | Introduction to Modern Algebra and Number Theory |
| MATH 4434 | Introduction to Probability |
The remainder of required hours are selected from the following:
| MATH 4031 | History of Math Sciences | MATH 4231 | Predicate Logic |
| MATH 4131 | Ordinary Differential Equations & Applications | MATH 4232 | Introduction to Abstract Algebra |
| MATH 4132 | Number Theory | MATH 4235 | Theory of Models & Applications |
| MATH 4135 | Numerical Analysis & Its Applications | MATH 4435 | Introduction to Statistics |
| MATH 4136 | Math Software Applications | ||
| General elective WRIT 3135 Tech. Writing if ENGL 2311 not taken. | |||
Applicants for the BS in Mathematical Science should have completed these courses in preparation for plan core requirements:
| Calculus I, II | 8 hours |
| *Calculus III | 3-4 hours |
| *Natural Science | 6 hours |
| *Scientific Programming Language | 3 hours |
*Courses available at UHCL.
If lower-level credit is given for any of the following courses, additional upper level course work selected from the list of electives will be required. In addition to the three-semester calculus sequence, students must complete the following courses:
| MATH 3131 | Introduction to Linear Algebra | MATH 4434 | Intro to Probability |
| MATH 4131 | Ordinary Differential Equations/Applications | MATH 4232 | Introduction to Abstract Algebra or |
| MATH 4136 | Math Software Applications | MATH 4435 | Introduction to Statistics |
| MATH 4331 | Advanced Calculus |
The remainder of required hours is selected from the following:
| MATH 4132 | Number Theory | MATH 4232 | Introduction to Abstract Algebra |
| MATH 4133 | Introduction to Topology | MATH 4235 | Theory of Models and Applications |
| MATH 4135 | Numerical Analysis & Its Applications | MATH 4431 | Introduction to Analysis |
| MATH 4231 | Predicate Logic | MATH 4633 | Functions of a Complex Variable |
| MATH 4435 | Introduction to Statistics | ||
| General elective WRIT 3135 Tech. Writing if ENGL 2311 not taken. | |||
The graduate plan in Mathematical Science leads to the master of science (MS) degree. Applicants for candidacy should have a bachelor's degree in mathematics. Students with other degrees may apply if their preparation includes a substantial number of advanced credits in mathematics. In some cases, additional preparatory courses may be required.
Undergraduate Foundation Courses for Masters in Mathematics
Introduction to Probability (may be waived with adviser's consent if undergraduate real analysis is successfully completed before enrollment in STAT 5431 Theory and Application of Probability
With adviser's approval, two of the following may count towards the Master's Degree if taken as a graduate student at UHCL: MATH 4431 (Introduction to Analysis) and MATH 4232 (Introductory Abstract Algebra) or MATH 4133 (Introduction to Topology). [Provided that equivalent courses have not been completed previously]
Course selections will be arranged in consultation with a faculty adviser while preparing the CPS. Students selecting the extended course work option must complete MATH 6837 (Research Project 1). This is to be taken after successfully completing nine hours of core and during the last 9 hours of course work. MATH 6838 (Research Project II) can be completed following MATH 6837 with faculty adviser approval prior to registration.
| MATH 5131 | Abstract Algebra | MATH 5136 | Ordinary Differential Equations & Dynamical Systems |
| MATH 5132 | Real Analysis | STAT 5431 | Theory and Application of Probability |
Students will select two courses from the following six:
| MATH 5134 | Logic | MATH 5333 | Numerical Analysis |
| MATH 5231 | Linear Algebra | MATH 5137 | Topology & Geometry |
| MATH 5431 | Mathematical Modeling in the Applied Sciences | MATH 5330 | Mathematical Software & Modeling Simulation |
| MATH, STAT courses, 5000-6000 level | 6 hours |
| Electives, 5000-6000 level courses | 6 hours |
| MATH 6939 Master's Thesis Research | 6 hours |
| MATH, STAT courses, 5000-6000 level | 6 hours |
| Electives, 5000-6000 level courses | 6 hours |
| MATH Electives, 4000-6000 level | 3 hours |
| MATH 6837 Research Project I | 3 hours |
The plan in Statistics leads to a master of science (MS) degree. This plan emphasizes a curriculum that is designed to educate students in the theory and application of statistics. The plan is suitable for students with an undergraduate background in mathematics, engineering or the sciences.
Students with degrees in engineering, science or other fields will be considered if their preparation includes an adequate number of upper- level credits in mathematics and statistics. In some cases, additional preparatory courses may be required.
The following courses or their approved substitutes are required:
| MATH 5231 | Linear Algebra | STAT 5532 | Linear Models & Regression Analysis |
| STAT 5431 | Theory & Application of Probability | STAT 5533 | Statistical Computing with SAS & S-Plus |
| STAT 5432 | Theory & Applications of Statistics | STAT 5531 | Multivariate Statistical Analysis |
| STAT courses, 5000-6000 level | 3 hours |
| Electives, 5000-6000 level | 3 hours |
| MATH or STAT electives, 4000-6000 level | 6 hours |
| STAT 6939 Master's Thesis Research | 6 hours |
Students desiring to follow the extended course work option must complete STAT 6837 and STAT 6838 during the last 18 hours of course work.
| STAT courses, 5000-6000 level | 3 hours |
| Electives, 5000-6000 level | 3 hours |
| MATH or STAT electives, 4000-6000 level | 6 hours |
| STAT 6837 and STAT 6838 | 6 hours |
The graduate plan in Mathematics and Statistics leads to a Master of Science (MS) degree in Mathematics and a Master of Science (MS) degree in Statistics. This plan emphasizes a curriculum that is designed to educate students in both Mathematics and Statistics. The plan is suitable for students with degrees in engineering, science or other fields with an undergraduate background in mathematics.
The following courses or their approved substitutes are required:
| MATH 5131 | Abstract Algebra | STAT 5431 | Theory & Application of Probability |
| MATH 5132 | Real Analysis | STAT 5432 | Theory & Applications of Statistics |
| MATH 5136 | Ordinary Differential Equations & Dynamical Systems | STAT 5531 | Multivariate Statistical Analysis |
| MATH 5231 | Linear Algebra | STAT 5532 | Linear Models & Regression Analysis |
| STAT 5533 | Statistical Computing with SAS and S-Plus |
Students will select two courses from the following six courses:
| MATH 5133 | Complex Analysis | MATH 5232 | Number Theory |
| MATH 5134 | Logic | MATH 5333 | Numerical Analysis |
| MATH 5137 | Topology & Geometry | MATH 5431 | Math Modeling in the Applied Sciences |
| MATH /STAT courses | 5000-6000 level | 9 hours |
| Electives | 5000-6000 level | 6 hours |
| MATH /STAT electives | 4000-6000 level | 6 hours |
| MATH or STAT 6939 | Master's Thesis Research | 6 hours |
Students desiring to follow the extended course work option must complete Research Project I and II (MATH 6837/6838 or STAT 6837/6838) during the last 18 hours of course work.
| MATH /STAT courses | 5000-6000 level** | 9 hours |
| Electives | 5000-6000 level | 6 hours |
| MATH /STAT electives | 4000-6000 level | 6 hours |
| MATH 6837/6838 or STAT 6837/6838 | 6 hours | |
**Note: At least 6 of these 9 credit hours have to be in the field in which the thesis or research project is done.
Students desiring to study in engineering may choose from one undergraduate or four graduate plans. The undergraduate plan is Computer Engineering (CENG). The four graduate plans are Computer Engineering (CENG), Software Engineering (SWEN), Systems Engineering (SENG) and Engineering Management (EMGT). Applicants should consult the chair of the division for additional information.
An SCE admission committee reviews all applications. Students entering the undergraduate Computer Engineering plans should have a cumulative GPA of 2.500 (four-point grade scale) or better in lower level or transfer courses. Students with a GPA of less than 2.500 are encouraged to provide a written statement of additional material that will assist the admission committee in determining the individual's potential for success in upper level courses.
All core courses require a grade of "C-"or better.
Students seeking graduate degree candidacy should have a bachelor's degree in a related field. To be accepted for degree candidacy, students should be within 15 hours of completing upper-level foundation courses. These courses are listed in the particular degree area in the catalog. All foundation courses must be completed within one calendar year of first graduate registration at UHCL. Students needing more than 15 hours of upper-level foundation courses are encouraged to complete a second bachelor's degree.
The plan in Computer Engineering leads to the bachelor of science (BS) degree. This engineering plan is accredited by ABET, Inc. and emphasizes the study of large and small computer systems for industrial, scientific and business applications. Computer hardware and software concepts, along with engineering-level mathematics, prepare students for jobs in computer-based industries as well as for admission into the graduate plan in Computer Engineering.
The culminating experience for a student in this plan is CENG 4625 / CENG 4626 Senior Projects. Students desiring to complete this plan in 4 years should concurrently enroll at UHCL after completing 30 semester hours at the transfer institution.
The mission of the Computer Engineering plan is to provide students instruction in the pragmatic application of core knowledge by which they can specify, design and develop large and small computer systems for industrial and scientific purposes. There is an emphasis on microcomputer-based embedded systems. The curriculum includes sub-plans in software engineering and telecommunications.
The education objectives of the Computer Engineering program are:
Students seeking a degree in Computer Engineering must have completed these courses or their equivalents in preparation for upper-level study:
| General Chemistry | 4 hours | *Ordinary Differential Equations | 3 hours |
| Calculus I & II | 6 hours | *Calculus Based Physics | 8 hours |
| *Calculus III | 3 hours | *Programming with C | 3 hours |
| *Linear Algebra | 3 hours |
*Courses available at UHCL.
| CENG 3112 | Lab for Digital Circuits | CENG 4113 | Lab for Microprocessor Interfacing |
| CENG 3113 | Lab for Linear Circuits | CENG 4133 | Microprocessor Interfacing |
| CENG 3114 | Lab for Adv Linear Circuits | CENG 4331 | Analysis & Design of Linear Sys |
| CENG 3132 | Digital Circuits | CENG 4534 | Digital System Design |
| CENG 3133 | Linear Circuits | CENG 4625 / CENG 4626 | Senior Projects |
| CENG 3134 | Advanced Linear Circuits | CSCI 3331 | Computer Organization & Assembly Language |
| CENG 3311 | Lab for Telecom/Networks | CSCI 3333 | Data Structures |
| CENG 3331 | Intro to Telecom/Networks | MATH 3331 | Discrete Mathematics |
| CENG 3511 | Lab for Computer Architecture | MATH 3334 | Probability & Statistics for Scientists & Engineers |
| CENG 3531 | Comp Arch: Minis & Micros | SENG 4130 | Intro to Systems Engineering |
| CENG 3624 | Intro to Engineering | SWEN 4432 | Software Engineering |
An additional 12 hours of technical electives in CENG/CSCI/SWEN are required.
Students interested in software engineering should select from the following courses as their required technical electives:
| CSCI 3233 | Object Oriented Design and Programming | SWEN 4433 | Software Engineering Tools |
| CSCI 3532 | Adv Data Structure & Algorithms | SWEN 4435 | Introduction to Personal Software Process |
Students interested in careers involving telecommunications and networks should take the following courses as their required technical electives:
| CENG 3135/3115 | Introduction to DSP and Lab | CENG 4231 | Telecom Switching Systems |
| CENG 4131 | Telecom Networking Devices | CSCI 4132 | Network Protocols |
Students interested in careers involving signal processing and control systems should take the following courses as their required technical electives:
| CENG 3135/3115 | Introduction to DSP and Lab | CENG 4632 | Digital Control Design |
| CENG 4135 | DSP Applications | CSCI 3231 | Numerical Methods |
The plan in Computer Engineering leads to the master of science (MS) degree. Graduate study in this plan prepares students to occupy leading roles in the development and use of computers and computer systems. The plan in Computer Engineering addresses the evaluation, design and implementation of computer systems for various applications. The curriculum and faculty research emphasize the integration of systems design, software applications and hardware design. Current specializations within the computer engineering degree plan include computer control systems, industrial automation and robotics, fault-tolerant computing, parallel processing, telecommunications and networking. The plan consists of formal courses, laboratory work and research in one of the specialty areas conducted under the guidance of a faculty adviser.
Candidates should have a bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering or equivalent. Students should consult an academic adviser to determine if they have sufficient background to satisfy course prerequisites. At a minimum, the following undergraduate courses, or their equivalents, are required and should be completed prior to enrolling in certain graduate courses:
| CENG 3112 | Lab for Digital Circuits | CENG 4534 | Digital System Design |
| CENG 3132 | Digital Circuits | CSCI 3133 | Programming with C |
| CENG 3511 | Lab for Computer Architecture | CSCI 3231 | Numerical Methods |
| CENG 3531 | Comp Architecture: Minis & Micros | CSCI 3331 | Comp Org and Assembly Language |
| CENG 4133 | Microprocessor Interfacing | MATH 4131 | Ord Diff Equations & Appl |
| CENG 4331 | Analysis and Design of Linear Systems |
(Note: Students may enroll in CENG 5031 Computer Engineering Fundamentals and CENG 5011 Lab for Computer Engineering Fundamentals, to meet the requirements of CENG 3132, CENG 3112, CENG 3531 and CENG 3511.)
The following courses or their approved substitutions are required for both the thesis and the extended course work options.
| CENG 5131 | Engineering Applications | 3 hours |
| CENG 5334 | Fault Tolerant Computing | 3 hours |
| CENG 5434 | Microcomputer Systems Design | 3 hours |
| CENG 6332 | High Performance Computer Architecture | 3 hours |
The following courses or their approved substitutions are required for both the thesis and the extended course work options.
| CENG courses | 5100-6000 level | 6 hours |
| CENG/CSCI/SWEN courses | 5100-6000 level | 6 hours |
| Technical elective | 4000-6000 level | 6 hours |
| CENG 6939 | Master's Thesis Research | 6 hours |
(Note: an additional 3 hours of thesis may be used as a plan elective.)
| CENG 6838 | Research Project* | 3 hours |
| CENG elective | 5000-6000 level | |
| (Student may take 3 hours extra of project course) | 3 hours |
(*To be taken after completion of core courses and during last 12 hours)
Students interested in developing a sub-plan in Digital Signal Processing should take the following as electives:
| CENG 5431 | Digital Signal Processing | CENG 5433 | Principles of Digital Communication Systems |
| CENG 6431 | DSP Implementations |
Students interested in developing a sub-plan in telecommunications should take the following as electives:
| CENG 5333 | Network Performance Analysis | CENG 5433 | Principles of Digital Comm. Systems |
| CENG 5431 | Digital Signal Processing |
The graduate plan in Engineering Management (EMGT) leads to the master of science (MS) degree. The Engineering Management Plan offers the candidate the opportunity to earn an advanced degree in two years while maintaining full-time employment. The EMGT curriculum provides the candidate with an enhanced perspective on issues that affect the management of technology in today's world. The material is targeted to equip the candidate with the tools to better manage a project, processes, personnel, products and services in real-world situations. From organization behavior, management of organizations and optimal decision-making, to engineering, economics, the plan courses focus on essential topics. Individuals with engineering and scientific backgrounds will find that this master of science degree may better suit their needs than the traditional MBA.
The Engineering Management (EMGT) curriculum is composed of 30 hours of course work of which 24 will be core courses. The 6 hours of electives could be either a 3 hour course elective with the Capstone Project or 6 hours of Thesis. The following plan course of study illustrates the cross-disciplinary nature of the program.
To enter the EMGT plan, a candidate must hold a bachelor's degree in engineering or science. The candidate must be approved by the graduate admission committee to ensure that the appropriate industrial or existing managerial background knowledge base is present. The GRE is required of all candidates applying for admission. The candidate must submit a GRE score of at least 1000 (verbal + quantitative), with a verbal score of 400 or higher. GRE scores will be evaluated by the degree plan's admissions committee and will be used as one of the indicators of the applicant's potential for completion of the plan. It is recommended that candidates who apply for admission to a graduate plan have a GPA of 3.0 or greater (four point grade scale) on the last 60 hours of course work.
The graduate degree in EMGT requires 30 hours of graduate courses. No 4000 level credits will be allowed for the EMGT master's degree. A maximum of six hours of grades of "C" may be counted toward the graduate degree; grades of "C-" will not apply.
In addition, the EMGT graduate admission committee may require that a set of foundation courses and their prerequisites be completed before enrolling in graduate EMGT program. The foundation courses are:
| MATH 4131 | Ordinary Differential Equations and Apps | MATH 3334 | Probability and Statistics for Scientists & Engineers |
Industrial related experience and letters of recommendations from current employers may also be required during admission review. The EMGT faculty graduate admissions committee based upon plane needs, the guidelines stated herein and UHCL admission requirements will decide acceptance into the program. Once admitted, the candidate must file a CPS in the first semester of enrollment.
| EMGT 5130 | New Business Development | 3 hours |
| EMGT 5131 | Legal Issues in Engineering Management | 3 hours |
| EMGT 5231 | System Engineering Management Planning | 3 hours |
| MGMT 5032 | Human Behavior in Organizations | 3 hours |
| MGMT 5636 | Management of Technology | 3 hours |
| MGMT 5638 | Managing Technical and Professional People | 3 hours |
| SWEN 5230 | Software Project Management | 3 hours |
| SENG 5230 | Systems Engineering Economics | 3 hours |
The Capstone enrollment is limited to candidates who have completed 18 hours of the EMGT core courses and their prerequisites.
| EMGT 6837 | Engineering Management Capstone Project | 3 hours |
| EMGT 5230 | Negotiation Strategies | 3 hours |
The following gives the rubric, course names, and Credits for EMGT Thesis Option that consists of six (6) hours of thesis research in engineering management. The master degree candidacy must have the approval of the candidate's faculty adviser and the Dean of SCE.
| EMGT 6939 | Master's Thesis Research | 6 hours |
The graduate plan in Software Engineering leads to the master of science (MS) degree. Studies address the foundations, methodologies and tools used in the development and evolution of software intensive systems. By providing a careful balance between theory and practice, the plan prepares students for key roles in industry, government agencies and other institutions where software is important and provides a basis for an academic level related to software engineering.
To enter the Software Engineering plan as either a local student or distance student, a candidate must typically hold a bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering or related field, must submit GRE scores of at least 1000 (verbal + quantitative), with a verbal score of 400 or higher and a GPA of 3.00 or higher. Writing ability (as measured by the new writing component of the GRE and other means) and previous related professional experience may also be considered during admission review. The faculty graduate admissions committee will decide acceptance into the program based upon program need, the guidelines stated herein and university admission requirements. Once admitted, the student must file a candidate plan of study (CPS) in the first semester of enrollment. Foundation courses that are found to be needed are added to the CPS and must be completed in or before the first year of enrollment.
No more than 9 hours of graduate level SWEN classes may be applied toward the SWEN degree if taken without admission into the program. No more than 6 hours graduate credit may be transferred to the SWEN degree.
Foundation courses and their prerequisites are required for entry and must be completed before enrolling in graduate SWEN courses.
| CSCI 3333 | Data Structures | 3 hours |
| MATH 3331 | Discrete Mathematics** | 3 hours |
| MATH 3334 | Probability and Statistics for Scientists and Engineers** | 3 hours |
| WRIT 3035 | Intermediate Writing * | 3 hours |
| WRIT 3135 | Technical Writing * | 3 hours |
*Required if verbal GRE < 400, ** Required if quantitative GRE < 500
| SWEN 5130 | Requirements Engineering | 3 hours |
| SWEN 5230 | Software Project Management | 3 hours |
| SWEN 5232 | Software Construction | 3 hours |
| SWEN 5233 | Software Architecture | 3 hours |
| SWEN 5234 | Software Engineering Processes | 3 hours |
| SWEN 5431 | Testing, Validation and Verification | 3 hours |
| SWEN 5432 | Software Engineering Life Cycle | 3 hours |
| SWEN 6837 | Software Engineering Capstone Project** | 3 hours |
| **Capstone enrollment is limited to students who have completed all 21 hours of the SWEN CORE and their prerequisites. | ||
| *SENG/CENG/CSCI/SWEN *elective, | 4000-6000 level | 6 hours |
| *SENG/CSCI/CENG/SWEN *technical elective, | 5100-6000 level | 6 hours |
*Courses taken as electives in SWEN require permission of the faculty adviser.
| SWEN 6939 | Master's Thesis Research | 6 hours |
Students must form a thesis committee and prepare a thesis proposal in the semester prior to enrollment into thesis. Contact the School of SCE advising office for instructions.
| SENG/CENG/CSCI/SWEN *elective | 4000-6000 level | 6 hours |
| SENG/CSCI/CENG/SWEN *technical elective | 5100-6000 level | 3 hours |
*Courses taken as electives require permission of the faculty adviser.
Students interested in concentrating their study in a specific sub-area of software engineering such as Information Management Systems, Software Safety or Software Management may choose as electives those courses listed under the respective sub-plans listed below.
| CSCI 4333 | Design of Database Systems | 3 hours |
| CSCI 5333 | Database Management Systems | 3 hours |
| CSCI 5433 | Object-Oriented Database Systems | 3 hours |
| SENG 5330 | Risk Management | 3 hours |
| SENG 5334 | Human Factors Engineering | 3 hours |
| SWEN 5532 | Software Safety | 3 hours |
| SWEN 5435 or SWEN 4435 | Personal Software Process | 3 hours |
| MGMT 5636 | Management of Technology | 3 hours |
| MGMT 5638 | Managing Technical and Professional People | 3 hours |
Web Based Electives (Distance Option)
| CSCI 5333 | Database Management Systems |
| SENG 5330 | Risk Management |
| SWEN 5430 | Software Metrics |
| SWEN 5435 or SWEN 4435 | Personal Software Process |
All courses have a dependency structure and students should consult the Software Engineering Course Roster in this catalog for prerequisites, co-requisites and sequencing of courses.
The Software Engineering program may be taken via the web by taking those SWEN courses that are offered as web-based and that meet the requirements of the SWEN program curriculum. All SWEN courses are available via the web whereas the foundation courses are not. Foundation courses are only offered as traditional on campus live lecture classes. Foundation courses must be taken either at UHCL or another university before entry into the SWEN distance option. Electives needed for the SWEN program are available over the web but they are restricted to a small set of available courses. (See web based electives listed with distance option above.) For more information see http://sce.uhcl.edu/swen/ms.htm. The web-based courses do not require attendance for weekly lectures, all lectures and class materials are available online. However, some of our web-based courses require attendance at the UHCL campus on exam days. There could also be academic administrative reasons that you might occasionally have to visit the campus.
The Software Engineering certificate is designed to prepare students to address aspects of software development including: developing the student's ability to communicate ideas; work in groups; manage software products; and to understand the complexities of building quality into a software product. Candidates may already have a Masters degree in a related field and would benefit from a four course set in Software Engineering basics that would help them advance in their professional career. The candidate could, after receiving a software engineering certificate, apply these four courses toward the completion of the Master of Science degree.
The admission requirements for the certificate program will be the same as for the Software Engineering MS degree in terms of undergraduate degree, perquisite courses and undergraduate GPA. Furthermore, a student pursuing a certificate program would have the option of taking the GRE and switching to the Software Engineering MS degree at anytime during their enrollment in the certificate program. The GRE is required for entry into the MS program in Software Engineering but it is not required for the certificate.
| SWEN | 5130 | Requirements Engineering |
| SENG | 5131 | Software Engineering Tools |
| SWEN | 5431 | Testing, Verification and Validation |
| SWEN | 5432 | Software Engineering Life Cycle |
The graduate plan in Systems Engineering leads to a master of science (MS) degree. The plan is designed to prepare engineers who are knowledgeable in interdisciplinary systems engineering approaches and engineering management and who therefore have the full range of concurrent engineering concepts and skills needed to specify, implement and support complete systems. Such knowledge is particularly important in the evolution of systems that are critical to achieving the mission of an organization and to sustaining the safety of life, health, property and the environment. Such systems are vital to many organizations that are served by UHCL such as: aerospace, biomedical, chemical, energy, manufacturing and others. The plan consists of formal courses, laboratory work and research conducted under the guidance of a faculty adviser. Candidates can tailor their plan of study to emphasize systems engineering analysis or systems engineering management. The website for the Systems Engineering program is http://sce.cl.uh.edu/seng
The candidates should have a bachelor's degree and be approved by the graduate admissions committee to ensure that the appropriate background knowledge base is present. This background must include, at a minimum:
| CSCI 3133 | Programming with C | 3 hours |
| MATH 3334 | Prob. and Statistics for Scientists and Engineers | 3 hours |
| MATH 4131 | Ordinary Differential Equations and Apps | 3 hours |
Candidates who do not have the required or equivalent preparation are required to take the appropriate courses before enrolling in certain graduate career courses in SENG, SWEN, CSCI and CENG. The committee recommends that candidates take CENG 5131 Engineering Applications as a preparation elective.
| SENG 5130 | Systems Engineering Processes | 3 hours |
| SENG 5230 | Systems Engineering Economics | 3 hours |
| SENG 5231 | Concurrent Engineering | 3 hours |
| SENG 5232 | Engineering Specialty Integration | 3 hours |
| SENG 5233 | Systems Engineering Analysis & Modeling | 3 hours |
| SENG 5330 | Risk Management | 3 hours |
| SWEN 5230 | Software Project Management | 3 hours |
| SENG 5332 | Decision Analysis for Systems Engineering | 3 hours |
| SENG 5334 | Human Factors Engineering | 3 hours |
| SENG 5532 | Adv. Decision Analysis for Systems Eng. | 3 hours |
| MGMT 5636 | Management of Technology | 3 hours |
| MGMT 5638 | Managing Technical and Professional People | 3 hours |
| INDH 5335 | Ergonomic Methods and Analysis Techniques | 3 hours |
| INDH 6332 | Safety Engineering | 3 hours |
These candidates may also choose elective options from the CENG, SWEN or EMGT engineering programs.
Thesis Option (6 hours of thesis + 9 hours of electives)
| SENG 6939 Master's Thesis Research | 6 hours |
| Electives in engineering, science and mathematics approved by the student's adviser | 9 hours |
| SENG 6837 Systems Engineering Capstone Project | 3 hours |
| Electives in engineering, science and mathematics approved by the student's adviser | 12 hours |
Students may already have a Masters degree in a related field and would benefit from a four course set in Systems Engineering basics that would help them advance in their professional career. The candidate could, after receiving a SENG certificate, apply these four courses toward the completion of the Master of Science degree. The candidate choosing to earn a certificate in Systems Engineering will be required to complete four courses with a 3.0 grade point average or better, based on a 4.0 system. The candidate will be given the option to pick from the following core courses they find most useful to their application:
The Systems Engineering Basics four, three hour courses are:
| SENG | 5130 | Systems Engineering Processes | 3 hours |
| SENG | 5230 | Systems Engineering Economics | 3 hours |
| SENG | 5330 | Risk Management | 3 hours |
| SENG | 5332 | Decision Analysis for Systems Engineering | 3 hours |
| SENG | 5231 | Concurrent Engineering | 3 hours |
| SENG | 5233 | Systems Engineering Analysis & Modeling | 3 hours |
| SENG | 5334 | Human Factors Engineering | 3 hours |
| INDH | 5335 | Human Factors Engineering Methods and Analysis | 3 hours |
| INDH | 6332 | Safety Engineering | 3 hours |
The plan in Biological Sciences leads to the bachelor of science (BS) or bachelor of arts (BA) degree. This plan is designed to prepare students for advanced study, technical positions in environmental or biomedical research or teaching. The Physiology/Pre-Health sub-plan within the BS plan is particularly applicable to students preparing for medical or dental school or other health-related professions. The BA in Biological Sciences is designed for students interested in teaching biology. Students who plan to pursue a teaching career must have dual advisement in both the subject field (Biological Sciences) and education. Please refer to the School of Education section of the catalog for the appropriate grades 4-8 or 8-12 degree and certification.
Applicants for the BA in Biological Sciences must have completed these courses in preparation for upper-level study:
| Chemistry with lab (including 4 hours of organic (with lab) | 12 hours |
| Biology (including labs) | 8 hours |
Students must complete a minimum of 15 upper-level hours with grades of "C" or better (grades of "C-" or below are not acceptable) in the Biological Sciences at UHCL. The CPS must include at least one course of upper- or lower-level study in each of these areas of Biological Sciences:
| Environment | 3 hours |
Examples: environmental biology, marine biology, or microbiology
| Population | 3 hours |
Examples: ecology or epidemiology
| Anatomy (including corequisite lab) | 4 hours |
Examples: human anatomy, plant anatomy, comparative animal morphology or biology of fishes.
| Physiology | 3 hours |
Examples: human physiology, comparative animal physiology or plant physiology
| Cellular Biology | 3 hour |
Examples: biochemistry I or cell biology
| Genetics and lab | 4 hours |
The BA in Biological Sciences also requires that students complete these support courses:
| Statistics (MATH 3038 | 3 hours |
| Technical Writing (WRIT 3135, if not completed at lower level) | 3 hours |
Applicants for the BS in Biological Sciences must have completed these courses in preparation for upper-level study:
| General Chemistry (including lab) | 8 hours |
| Physics (including lab) | 8 hours |
| Calculus | 4 hours |
| Biology (including lab) | 8 hours |
The course of study for the BS in Biological Sciences requires 60 semester hours, which include 25 hours of core courses, plus 19-21 hours within a specialization area, plus 15-17 hours of approved electives.
Students must complete the following core courses with grades of "C" or better (grades of "C-" or below are not acceptable) in the Biological Sciences.
| BIOL 4431 | Biochemistry I | 3 hours |
| BIOL 4422 | Laboratory for Biochemistry | 2 hours |
| BIOL 3431 | Genetics | 3 hours |
| BIOL 3411 | Genetics Laboratory | 1 hour |
| CHEM 3233, 3234, 3224 | Organic Chemistry I and II, Lab | 8 hours |
| BIOL 4131 | Ecology | 3 hours |
| MATH 3038 | Computational Statistics | 3 hours |
| BIOL 4728 | Seminar in Biology | 2 hours |
Three Specialization Areas are available to students pursuing the BS degree in Biological Sciences. In all cases prerequisites for each course must be satisfied prior to enrollment in the course. Students in each Specialization Area must complete the required courses with grades of "C" or better (grades of "C-"or below are not acceptable).
| BIOL 4432 | Biochemistry II | 3 hours |
| BIOL 4437 | Cellular Physiology | 3 hours |
| BIOL 4438BIOL 4531 | Developmental BiologyMolecular Biology | 3 hours3 hours |
| Choose one of the following courses: | ||
| BIOL 4435 | Human Physiology | |
| BIOL 4434 | Comparative Animal Physiology | |
| BIOL 3134 | Plant Physiology | |
| Choose one of the following courses: | 4 hours | |
| BIOL 3733 & BIOL 3713 | Human Anatomy & Lab | |
| BIOL 3031 | Comparative Animal Morphology | |
| BIOL 3133 & BIOL 3113 | Plant Anatomy & Lab | |
| BIOL 4432 | Biochemistry II | 3 hours |
| BIOL 4435 | Human Physiology | 3 hours |
| BIOL 3733 & BIOL 3713 | Human Anatomy & Lab | 4 hours |
| BIOL 3231 | Fundamentals of Microbiology | 3 hours |
| BIOL 4631 | Immunology | 3 hours |
| Choose one of the following courses: | 3 hours | |
| BIOL 4437 | Cellular Physiology | |
| BIOL 4436 | Pathophysiology | |
| BIOL 4531 | Molecular Biology | |
| Physiology (BIOL 4434 or BIOL 3134) | 3 hours | |
| Anatomy (BIOL 3031 or BIOL 3133) | 3 hours | |
| Microbiology & Lab (BIOL 3231 & BIOL 3221) | 5 hours | |
| Environmental Toxicology (BIOL 4235) | 3 hours | |
| Choose one of the following courses: | 3 hours | |
| BIOL 3333 | Environmental Biology | |
| BIOL 4233 | Field Biology | |
| BIOL 3131 | Marine Biology | |
| Choose one of the following courses: | 3 hours | |
| BIOL 4237 | Plant Identification | |
| BIOL 3334 | Environmental & Public Health Microbiology | |
| BIOL 4133 & BIOL 4113 | Biology of Fishes and Lab | |
An additional 15-17 hours of coursework in the sciences must be selected in consultation with a Biology Program faculty adviser and must be completed with a grade of "C-" or better.
Premedical and predentistry students are advised that most medical schools require the following courses; however, students are responsible for determining the specific requirements of those medical schools selected for application:
| General Chemistry | One year with laboratory |
| Organic Chemistry | One year with laboratory |
| General Physics | One year with laboratory |
| Calculus | One half year |
| Biology | Two years, one with laboratory |
Requests for letters of recommendation from the Pre-Health Profession Evaluation Committee must be in the Premedical Adviser's office no later than the third Monday in September. UHCL Pre-health Advisory Committee Webpage: http://www.uhcl.edu/sce/HPAC
The Biology Scholars Plan combines the BS and MS degree plans in Biology with the intention of allowing highly motivated and qualified students to complete both the BS and MS degrees in biology in a time and cost efficient manner. Students in the plan may take up to four courses at the graduate level in their senior year if they have completed the required course prerequisites. These graduate credit hours may be applied toward either the BS or MS degree, but not both. Additionally, students in the Scholars Plan are expected to begin a graduate research project early in their studies. After admission to the Scholars Plan and successful completion of the BS degree in Biology, the Biology Program Graduate Admissions committee will consider waiving the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) requirement for admission into the Biology Graduate Program.
Biology Scholars Plan application requirements:
Students who fail to meet any of these requirements will be dropped from the Scholars Plan, but may continue to pursue the BS or MS degree in biology. Students who are dropped from the Scholars Program, but who wish to continue to pursue the MS degree, must meet the standard application requirements for admission to the Biology Graduate Program.
At the completion of the requirements for each degree the student will be awarded the BS and MS degrees in Biological Sciences. A notation will be made on the student's transcript indicating they have completed the Biology Scholars Plan.
In the event a student is unable to complete the entire program of study, they are assured the BS degree in Biology upon completion of the requirements for that degree. In the event a student fails to complete the MS degree requirements, graduate level classes taken while in the program may be applied toward the BS degree.
The graduate plan in Biological Sciences leads to the master of science (MS) degree. Applicants for candidacy should have a bachelor's degree in Biology, although applicants with other degrees may apply if their degrees or preparation include a significant number of plan core courses in the Biological Sciences, as well as appropriate chemistry, physics and mathematics courses.
Students should have completed the basic requirements of the bachelor of science degree in Biological Sciences at UHCL or the following courses (including prerequisites or equivalents) before applying for admission:
| BIOL 3431 | Genetics | BIOL 4437 | Cellular Physiology |
| BIOL 4431 | Biochemistry I | BIOL 4531 | Molecular Biology |
| BIOL 4434 | Comparative Animal Physiology or | MATH 3038 | Computational Statistics |
| BIOL 4435 | Human Physiology |
A maximum of six credit hours of the 4000 level courses listed above may be applied toward the MS degree.
Graduate students who select the master's thesis option are advised to take BIOL 5530, Research Methods in Biology, early in their studies as preparation for beginning the thesis. The remaining graduate hours may be taken in related areas and will be arranged with the faculty adviser during the preparation of the CPS. At minimum, 24 of the 36 hours must be in the Biological Sciences. Students who select the non-thesis option are required to complete BIOL 6838, the capstone project course, during their last 12 hours. Students who fail to meet the School GRE and GPA standards for admission may be required to meet additional performance criteria such as past performance in critical courses, withdrawal and drop history, letters of recommendation, personal knowledge of past performance, improvement on repeated courses, work and/or life experiences and individual faculty support as a mentor in the research laboratory.
The Masters degree in Biology with a pre-health focus consists of coursework that is intended to prepare the student for medical/dental/physician assistant/allied health school curricula. The prehealth specialization coursework includes 27 hours of core courses, 3 hours of capstone course (BIOL 6838), and 6 hours of graduate electives. A thesis option is also available.
| Biochemistry II (BIOL 4432) |
| Advanced Immunology (BIOL 5435) |
| Bioethics (BIOL 5736) |
| Cell Signaling (BIOL 5132) |
| Membrane Biology (BIOL 5131) |
| Neuroscience (BIOL 5635) |
| Oncogenes (BIOL 5734) |
| Toxicology (BIOL 5332) |
| Advanced Pathophysiology (BIOL 5931 Topic: Advanced Pathophysiology) |
or
| Physiology of Human Aging (BIOL 5136) |
Two (2) additional electives (4000 level or above), plus BIOL 6838 Research Project and Seminar
Research Methods in Biology (BIOL 5530), plus up to six hours in Master's Thesis Research (BIOL 6939)
For students selecting the non-thesis option, recommended electives include:
| Cancer Biology (BIOL 4731) |
| Cellular Physiology (BIOL 4437) |
| Developmental Biology (BIOL 4438) |
| Enzymology (BIOL 5433) |
| Histology (BIOL 4332) |
| Molecular Biology (BIOL 4531) |
| Independent Study in Biological Science (BIOL 5939) |
UHCL Prehealth Advisory Committee Webpage: http://www.uhcl.edu/sce/HPAC
A student may work toward a Certificate in Biotechnology, which requires the completion of at least seven biology laboratory courses at UHCL. The certificate option targets students who are working toward or have already completed a BS degree and wish to add course work that will be focused on the biotechnology field. Training in these laboratories will prepare students for careers in academic, industrial, biomedical, clinical, state/federal or environmental areas.
Students who are currently majoring in biology, environmental science or chemistry, or who have already completed a bachelor's degree, must have completed introductory biology (6 hours), general chemistry (8 hours), organic chemistry (8 hours) and calculus as general prerequisites. In addition, students must have completed or be currently enrolled in the following courses: biochemistry, cell biology or cell physiology, genetics, animal/human/plant physiology and microbiology.
Current UHCL students (degree-seeking BS or MS students or post-baccalaureate non-degree seeking students) who wish to participate in the certificate option must be in good academic standing, maintain a minimum 2.500 GPA in the laboratory courses and be advised by a faculty member in the Biology program.
A minimum of seven laboratory courses must be completed for the Certificate in Biotechnology.
The following three core courses are required:
| BIOL 4522 | Molecular Biology Laboratory |
| BIOL 4523 | Laboratory for Biotechnology |
| BIOL 4931 | Topic: Eukaryotic Gene Expression Laboratory |
At least four of the following courses are required:
| BIOL 3221 | Laboratory for Fundamentals of Microbiology |
| BIOL 3713 | Human Anatomy Laboratory |
| BIOL 4225 | Environmental Toxicology Laboratory |
| BIOL 4931 | Topic: Histological Techniques |
| BIOL 4421 | Laboratory for Physiology |
| BIOL 4535 | Tissue Culture |
| BIOL 4819,4829, 4839 | Independent Study (up to 6 hours total) |
The graduate plan in Biotechnology leads to the master of science (M.S.) degree. In addition to satisfying admission requirements of the University and School of SCE (e.g., transcripts and GRE scores), applicants for the M.S. in Biotechnology program should have completed a bachelor's degree in biology or a related discipline. All applicants must submit two letters of recommendation directed to the chairperson of the admissions committee for the M.S. in Biotechnology. Upon acceptance to the M.S. in Biotechnology, a student must identify the concentration to be pursued.
Applicants should have completed the appropriate foundation course work. Applicants missing certain required courses in their undergraduate preparation, but who meet the minimum university standards for admission, may be admitted on condition that they will complete specific undergraduate foundation courses for full admission to the program. If additional coursework is required to meet prerequisites for courses in a concentration area, students may enroll in these after admittance to the program.
Courses listed as foundation courses on the CPS for either the core or concentration area will not apply to the credit hours required for the M.S. degree. Students requiring significant prerequisite or foundation coursework should anticipate an extended time commitment for earning the graduate degree.
Applicants must have completed the equivalent of the basic requirements for the Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences, or the following courses or equivalents before applying for admission:
| BIOL 3431 | Genetics | BIOL 4437 | Cellular Physiology |
| BIOL 4431 | Biochemistry I | BIOL 4531 | Molecular Biology |
| BIOL 4434, 4435 or 3134 | Animal, Human or Plant Physiology | MATH 3038 | Computational Statistics |
In all cases above, evidence of completion of the course with a grade of "C" or better is required.
Concentration Prerequisite Requirements
The following additional prerequisite courses are required for the specific concentration chosen by the student:
Molecular Biotechnology Concentration (UHCL course or equivalent)
| BIOL | 4438 | Developmental Biology |
| BIOL | 4522 | Molecular Biology Laboratory |
| BIOL | 4535 | Tissue Culture |
Bioinformatics / Computational Biology Concentration (UHCL course or equivalent)
| CSCI 3133 | Programming with C | CSCI 3333 | Data Structures |
| CSCI 3134 | Software Development with Java | CSCI 3532 | Advanced Data Structures and Algorithms |
| CSCI 3233 | Object-Oriented Design and Programming | CSCI 4333 | Design of Database Systems |
Biotechnology Management and Marketing Concentration (UHCL course or equivalent)
| **MGMT 3031 | Management Theory and Practice |
| **MGMT 4534 | Organizational Behavior |
| **MKTG 3031 | Marketing: Creating Value for Customers |
**If students have not taken MGMT 3031, MGMT 4534, and MKTG 3031 they may take MGMT 5032 and MKTG 5031 to fulfill the foundation requirements of this concentration.
In all cases above, evidence of completion of the course with a grade of "C" or better is required.
Core Requirements for the M.S. Degree
The M.S. degree requires the completion of 36 hours. All core requirements and Biotechnology electives must be completed with a grade of "C" or better but GPA must be ≥ 3.0. Although the M.S. in Biotechnology does not require an internship, field experience or thesis, these options are available and students are encouraged to participate in them.
Required courses (18 hours):
| BIOT 5031 | Applied Biotechnology | 3 hours |
| BIOT 5733 | Bioinformatics | 3 hours |
| BIOT 5736 | Biomedical Ethics | 3 hours |
| BIOT 5131 | Advanced Methods in Biotechnology I | 3 hours |
| BIOT 5132 | Advanced Methods in Biotechnology II | 3 hours |
| STAT 5135 | Applied Statistical Methods | 3 hours |
Under the Extended Coursework Option, a minimum of 27 hours of Biotechnology core curriculum (including 6 hours of approved electives from any of the three concentrations and 3 hours of BIOT 6838 Capstone Seminar), plus 9 hours of electives within their specific concentration area must be completed.
Under the Thesis Option, a minimum of 27 hours of Biotechnology core curriculum (including 3 hours of BIOT 5530 Research Methods in Biotechnology and 6 hours of BIOT 6939 Master's Thesis Research), plus 9 hours of electives within their specific concentration area must be completed (Note: an additional 3 credit hours of BIOT 6939 may be used as a plan elective). Graduate students who select the master's thesis option are advised to take BIOT 5530, Research Methods in Biotechnology, early in their studies as preparation for beginning the thesis.
Molecular Biotechnology Concentration (9-15 Hours)
| BIOL 5131 | Membrane Biology | BIOL 5732 | Advances in Molecular Biology |
| BIOL 5132 | Cell Signaling | BIOL 5734 | Oncogenes |
| BIOL 5332 | Toxicology | BIOL 5737 | Molecular Vectors |
| BIOL 5333 | Industrial Microbiology | BIOL 5738 | Gene Therapy |
| BIOL 5433 | Enzymology | BIOL 5833 | Proteomics |
| BIOL 5435 | Advanced Immunology | BIOT 5915 | Cooperative Education Work Term |
| BIOL 5634 | Apoptosis | BIOT 5931 | Research Topics in Biotechnology |
| BIOL 5635 | Neuroscience |
Bioinformatics / Computational Biology Concentration (9-15 Hours)
| BIOL 5737 | Molecular Vectors | CSCI 5633 | Web Database Development |
| BIOL 5833 | Proteomics | CSCI 5733 | XML Application Development |
| CSCI 5333 | Database Management Systems | CSCI 5833 | Data Mining: Tools and Techniques |
| CSCI 5433 | Object-Oriented Database Systems | BIOT 5915 | Cooperative Education Work Term |
| CSCI 5530 | Pattern Classification | BIOT 5931 | Research Topics in Biotechnology |
| CSCI 5532 | Pattern Recognition and Image Processing |
Biotechnology Management and Marketing Concentration (9-15 Hours)
| BAPA 5131 | The Global Environment of Business | MGMT 6332 | International Management |
| MGMT 5133 | Teamwork & Leadership Skills: Theory in Practice | MKTG 5332 | Executive Decisions In Marketing |
| MGMT 5636 | Management of Technology | MKTG 5532 | International Marketing Strategy |
| INDH 6135 | Radiation Protection | MGMT 5638 | Managing Technical and Professional People |
| BIOT 5931 | Research Topics in Biotechnology |
Plans in Chemistry lead to the bachelor of arts (BA), bachelor of science (BS) and master of science (MS) degrees. The Chemistry Program has completed evaluation and assessment by the American Chemical Society (ACS), and is added to the ACS list of approved chemistry programs nationwide. Therefore students may now obtain ACS-certified BS degrees in chemistry if they complete the appropriate curriculum. Undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in the Chemistry plan may choose from high quality content courses in all of the traditional areas of Organic, Analytical, Physical and Inorganic Chemistry, as well as in the closely related fields of Biochemistry and Environmental Chemistry. Moreover, students are encouraged to further enhance their studies by undertaking research with one of the Chemistry plan's faculty in any of these areas. In regard to such research, it should be noted that during the past nine years the Chemistry plan has received endowments from the Welch Foundation in the form of a Chemistry Departmental Research Grant. Those funds have been expended in support of the research efforts carried out by the plan's faculty during the training of students. This grant has just been renewed through the year 2011. The Chemistry plan also has an endowment from the Zeon Chemicals Company.
All chemistry courses taken at UHCL more than one year prior to being admitted to the Chemistry plan are subject to faculty review before being accepted for degree credit. Further information on the Chemistry plan is available from the Chair of Chemistry.
The BA degree is recommended for students preparing for careers in interdisciplinary areas such as medicine, secondary school teaching, patent law or environmental science. Students seeking a career in secondary school teaching must also file a certification plan with the School of Education. The BS degree is designed to meet the needs of students planning careers as professional chemists and is recommended as preparation for graduate training or for a career in the chemical industry.
Students seeking a BA degree in Chemistry must meet the following minimum requirements or equivalents before being admitted.
| General (Freshman) Chemistry I & II with laboratory | 8 hours |
| Calculus I (Differential Calculus) | 3 hours |
| College Physics I and II with laboratory | 8 hours |
| Introduction to Computer Programming | |
| (e.g., BASIC, FORTRAN, C or PASCAL) | 3 hours |
In all cases above, evidence of completion of the course with a grade of "C-" or better is required.
Students seeking a BA degree in Chemistry must successfully complete the following courses or their equivalents:
| Organic Chemistry (CHEM 3233, CHEM 3234, CHEM 3224) | 8 hours |
| Analytical Chemistry (CHEM 4635, CHEM 4636, CHEM 4622) | 8 hours |
| Physical Chemistry (CHEM 3230 or CHEM 4231) | 3 hours |
| Inorganic Chemistry (CHEM 4335) | 3 hours |
| Chemistry Seminar (CHEM 4732) | 3 hours |
| Mathematics (MATH 3038 or MATH 3131) | 3 hours |
| Advanced CHEM elective (approved by faculty adviser) | 3 hours |
A minimum of 12 hours in the CHEM rubric must be successfully completed at UHCL. For successful completion of any core requirement or chemistry elective, a grade of "C-" or better must be attained.
Students seeking the BS degree in Chemistry must meet the following requirements before being admitted.
| General (Freshman) Chemistry I and II with lab | 8 hours |
| Calculus I and II | 8 hours |
| *Calculus-based Physics with lab | 8 hours |
| Introduction to Computer Programming | |
| (e.g., BASIC, FORTRAN, C or PASCAL) | 3 hours |
*Course available at UHCL.
In all cases above, evidence of completion of the course with a grade of "C-" or better is required.
Students seeking the BS degree in Chemistry must successfully complete the following courses or their equivalents:
| Organic Chemistry (CHEM 3233, CHEM 3234, CHEM 3224) | 8 hours |
| Analytical Chemistry (CHEM 4635, CHEM 4636, CHEM 4622) | 8 hours |
| Physical Chemistry (CHEM 4231, CHEM 4232, CHEM 4222) | 8 hours |
| Inorganic Chemistry (CHEM 4335, CHEM 4325) | 5 hours |
| Chemistry Seminar (CHEM 4732) | 3 hours |
| Advanced Mathematics (approved by faculty adviser) | 3 hours |
| Biochemistry (CHEM 4431) | 3 hours |
| Advanced Organic Chemistry (CHEM 4638) | 3 hours |
| Undergraduate Research (CHEM 4729) | 2 hours |
A minimum of 15 hours in the CHEM rubric must be successfully completed at UHCL. For successful completion of any core requirement or chemistry elective, a grade of "C-" or better must be attained.
An advanced studies plan in Chemistry leads to the master of science (MS) degree. The thesis option affords students opportunities to develop research skills appropriate for terminal degrees as professional chemists or for continuation into PhD plans. The extended course work option emphasizes classroom instruction in advanced chemical sciences and is particularly appropriate for educational advancement by industry professionals and secondary school teachers.
Students seeking the MS degree in Chemistry must have completed, at minimum, the following courses with grades of "C-" or better:
| General (Freshman) Chemistry I & II with laboratory | 8 hours |
| Organic Chemistry I & II with laboratory | 8 hours |
| Analytical Chemistry I & II with laboratory | 8 hours |
| Physical Chemistry I & II with laboratory | 8 hours |
| Inorganic Chemistry with laboratory | 5 hours |
Most of these course requirements may be met at UHCL prior to entering the graduate Chemistry plan by completing the following courses with grades of "C-" or better: CHEM 3233, CHEM 3234, CHEM 3224; CHEM 4635, CHEM 4636, CHEM 4622; CHEM 4231, CHEM 4232, CHEM 4222; CHEM 4335.
None of these courses is normally accepted for degree credit toward the hours in the graduate plan.
Students must successfully complete a minimum of 18 hours of graduate career chemistry courses, 12 hours of which must be taken at UHCL. All core requirements and chemistry electives must be completed with a grade of "B-" or better. A minimum of three hours must come from each of the following:
| Organic Chemistry (CHEM 5134, CHEM 5336, CHEM 5337, CHEM 5638) |
| Analytical Chemistry (CHEM 5133, CHEM 5235, CHEM 5636) |
| Physical Chemistry (CHEM 5235, CHEM 5337) |
| Inorganic Chemistry (CHEM 5335, CHEM 5336) |
| Graduate Seminar (CHEM 6731) |
Under the extended course work option, a minimum of 30 hours of formal course work (including three hours CHEM 6731 Graduate Seminar) must be completed. In addition, students must choose an adviser and complete a total of six hours credit in the two Research Project and Seminar courses (CHEM 6837 and CHEM 6838).
Under the thesis option, a minimum of 24 hours of formal course work (including three hours of CHEM 6731 Graduate Seminar) must be completed. In addition, students must complete a minimum of six hours of CHEM 6939, Master's Thesis Research. A maximum of nine hours of CHEM 6939 can be applied toward graduation requirements. Remaining course work for a total of 36 hours may come from CHEM 6838 Research Project and Seminar or additional formal courses.
The plan in Environmental Science leads to the bachelor of science (BS) degree. This plan seeks through an interdisciplinary approach to prepare students for opportunities in the private sector and in governmental agencies where environmental issues are being addressed. Graduates of the plan will also be prepared to pursue further academic training in Environmental Science. Students may also prepare for the professional certification examinations in Industrial Hygiene and Safety.
Students must specialize in one of the following areas: Environmental Biology, Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Geology, Industrial Hygiene or Safety.
Applicants for the BS in Environmental Science must have completed the following courses (grade of C- or better) in preparation for upper-level study:
| Chemistry I, II | 8 hours |
| Calculus I | 3 hours |
| College Physics I, II | 8 hours |
| Technical Writing | 3 hours |
In addition to the above requirements, at least 12 hours in science (biology, chemistry, physics and/or geology) must be completed before admission to the Environmental Science plan. Other courses specific to the specialization area (e.g., Biology I, II for those specializing in Environmental Biology or Environmental Chemistry; and Anatomy and Physiology for those specializing in Industrial Hygiene or Safety) should also be completed.
(Must be completed with a grade of "C-"or better)
| Organic Chemistry I | 3 hours |
| Environmental Chemistry | 3 hours |
| Environmental Biology | 3 hours |
| Environmental Geology | 3 hours |
| Environmental Health and Safety | 3 hours |
| Statistics (MATH 3038 or Equivalent) | 3 hours |
| Internship, Co-Op, Independent Study, Seminar or Adv. Studies | 3 hours |
(Must be completed with a grade of "C-"or better)
Environmental Biology
| BIOL 3334 | Environmental and Public Health Microbiology | 3 hours |
| BIOL 4131 | Ecology | 3 hours |
| BIOL 4235 | Environmental Toxicology | 3 hours |
| BIOL 4434 | Comparative Animal Physiology | 3 hours |
| CHEM 4521 | Lab for Environmental Analysis | 2 hours |
| CHEM 4535 | Environmental Sampling & Monitoring | 3 hours |
Environmental Chemistry
| CHEM 3230 | Survey of Physical Chemistry | 3 hours |
| CHEM 3234 | Organic Chemistry II | 3 hours |
| CHEM 4521 | Lab for Environmental Analysis | 2 hours |
| CHEM 4532 | Water Chemistry and Water Pollution | 3 hours |
| CHEM 4535 | Environmental Sampling & Monitoring | 3 hours |
| CHEM 4635 | Analytical Chemistry I | 3 hours |
| CHEM 4636 | Analytical Chemistry II | 3 hours |
| CHEM 4536 | Soil and Groundwater Remediation | 3 hours |
Environmental Geology
| GEOL 3631 | Photogeology | 3 hours |
| GEOL 4222 | Laboratory for Geomorphology | 2 hours |
| GEOL 4234 | Geomorphology | 3 hours |
| GEOL 4235 | Sedimentation and Stratigraphy | 3 hours |
| GEOL 4531 | Hydrogeology | 3 hours |
| CHEM 4521 | Lab for Environmental Analysis | 2 hours |
| CHEM 4535 | Environmental Sampling & Monitoring | 3 hours |
Industrial Hygiene
| INDH 3131 | Industrial Health and Hygiene | 3 hours |
| INDH 3332 | Principles of Professional Safety | 3 hours |
| INDH 4131 | Noise and Hearing Conservation | 3 hours |
| INDH 4133 | Industrial Ventilation | 3 hours |
| INDH 4135 | Industrial Radiological Health | 3 hours |
| INDH 4231 | Ergonomics, Human Factors and Workspace Design | 3 hours |
| INDH 4232 | I H Sampling and Analysis | 3 hours |
| BIOL 4235 | Environmental Toxicology | 3 hours |
Safety
| INDH 3131 | Industrial Health and Hygiene | 3 hours |
| INDH 3332 | Principles of Professional Safety | 3 hours |
| INDH 3430 | Techniques of Safety Eng & Analysis | 3 hours |
| INDH 4231 | Ergonomics, Human Factors and Workplace Design | 3 hours |
| INDH 4232 | I H Sampling and Analysis | 3 hours |
| INDH 4136 | System Safety and Accident Investigation | 3 hours |
| INDH 4333 | Construction & General Industry Safety | 3 hours |
Additional required electives must be selected in consultation with a faculty adviser and shall be completed with grades "C-" or better. In all cases, prerequisites for each course must be satisfied. A maximum of six hours of environmental management courses may be included.
The graduate plan in Environmental Science leads to the master of science (MS) degree. The plan seeks, through an interdisciplinary approach, to prepare students for opportunities in government and the private sector. Graduates of the plan may also be prepared to pursue further academic training in environmental sciences and occupational health. Students must specialize in one of the following areas: Environmental Biology, Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Geology, Industrial Hygiene or Safety.
Students seeking a master's degree must have course work preparation appropriate to their area of specialization. At least 34 hours of natural science and 6 hours of mathematics are required prior to admission.
Students should submit a written statement to the Office of the Dean of Science and Computer Engineering specifying their educational goals and objectives as well as their intended areas of specialization, i.e., Environmental Biology, Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Geology, Industrial Hygiene or Safety. Applicants are also encouraged to submit letter(s) of recommendation as supporting documents. Basic requirement courses do not count toward the degree. These courses do, however, count toward the total hours required above. The following must be completed prior to admission into the graduate plan:
| General Chemistry | 2 semesters |
| General Physics | 2 semesters |
| Calculus I | 1 semester |
The following must be completed prior to or within the first year of study:
| Organic Chemistry I | 1 semester |
| Statistics | 1 semester |
The master's degree requires completion of a minimum of 36 hours. The core consists of STAT 5135, ENSC 5530, and ENSC 6731 or ENSC 6838 or ENSC 6939, which must be taken in the order listed. Thesis and research project course options are available and are described below.
| ENSC 5530 | Research Methods: Environmental Science | 3 hours |
| ENSC 6939 | Master's Thesis: Environmental Science | 6 hours |
| STAT 5135 | Applied Statistical Methods | 3 hours |
Designated electives (maximum of 6 hours of 4000 level credit): 24 hours
| ENSC 5530 | Research Methods: Environmental Science | 3 hours |
| ENSC 6838 | Research Project | 3 hours |
| Or ENSC 6731 Graduate Seminar | ||
| STAT 5135 | Applied Statistical Methods | 3 hours |
| Designated electives (maximum of 6 hours of 4000 level credit) | 27 hours | |
Electives are selected in consultation with the faculty adviser and must include at least one course from three of the following areas: biology, chemistry, geology or industrial hygiene and safety. A maximum of six hours of environmental management courses may be included.
All graduate students are required to produce a major paper and present a public seminar. Prior to enrolling in ENSC 6731 or ENSC 6838, students must have a faculty adviser and an approved research topic.
Students pursuing the research project option may be advised to complete hours in independent study or internship in addition to ENSC 6838. Before enrolling in thesis, students must have a faculty thesis adviser and an approved research proposal.
The plan in Physical Sciences leads to the bachelor of science (BS) degree. Emphasis is placed on interdisciplinary applications of the physical sciences appropriate to careers in industry, government or teaching; the physics sub-plan also prepares students for the M.S. degree in Physics at UHCL. Students may select electives in areas of particular interest. Students who plan to pursue a teaching career must have dual advisement in both the subject field and education. These students must also file a certification plan with the School of Education. Please see the BS degree below and the section for the 8-12 requirements for teaching certification.
Students seeking a BS degree in the Physical Sciences should complete the following requirements before seeking admission to the plan:
| Calculus I & II | 8 hours |
| Programming Language Course (e.g., C, C++, Fortran, Java) Physics sub-plan only | 3 hours |
| General Chemistry I and II with laboratories | 8 hours |
| Organic Chemistry I | 4 hours |
| Organic Chemistry II Teacher Preparation sub-plan only | 4 hours |
| PHYS 3031 & 3011 | University Physics I with Lab |
| PHYS 3032 & 3012 | University Physics II with Lab |
| PHYS 3033 | Modern Physics |
| PHYS 4732 | Modern Physics Research Seminar |
| CHEM 3230 | Survey of Physical Chemistry |
| MATH 3038 | Computational Statistics |
In consultation with a faculty adviser, the student selects 13 hours of additional SCE approved science electives in ASTR, CHEM, GEOL or PHYS.
| PHYS 4131 | Mathematical Methods for Physicists I |
| PHYS 4132 | Mathematical Methods for Physicists II |
| PHYS 4331 | Principles of Electromagnetism |
| PHYS 4432 | Principles of Quantum Mechanics |
| PHYS 4531 | Thermodynamics & Fluid Mechanics |
| PHYS 4839 | Independent Study in Physics |
In addition to the core requirements, the student, in consultation with a faculty adviser, selects 12 hours of SCE approved science electives.
The graduate plan in Physics leads to the master of science (MS) degree at UHCL. The goal of this program is to prepare students for Ph.D level work and advanced research in Physics and Astronomy. This program also serves to expand the knowledge base of practicing engineers. Students in this program gain better problem-solving abilities as well as increased knowledge of several aspects of Physics and Astronomy. The physics program provides students with a deeper understanding of the essential science used in many of the engineering disciplines and in the space industry.
Applicants for candidacy should have a bachelor of science (BS) degree in one of the physical sciences, mathematics or engineering disciplines. Applicants with other degrees may also apply if they meet the requirements listed below. Equivalent courses or appropriate substitutions will be determined in consultation with a faculty adviser. If background deficiencies exist, students may be required to take courses that will not apply toward the graduate degree.
Students should take the following courses (or equivalents) in preparation for the program (Note PHYS 4131 and PHYS 4132 satisfy many of these requirements):
| University Physics I & II with Laboratory | 8 hours |
| Modern Physics | 3 hours |
| Calculus I, II | 8 hours |
| Calculus III | 3 hours |
| Differential Equations | 3 hours |
| Complex Variables | 3 hours |
| Linear Algebra | 3 hours |
| Probability and Statistics | 3 hours |
| Principles of Electromagnetism | 3 hours |
| Principles of Quantum Mechanics | 3 hours |
| Thermodynamics & Fluid Mechanics | 3 hours |
The following 15 hours of graduate physics courses are required for both the thesis and extended course work options.
| PHYS 5331 or equivalent | Electrodynamics I | 3 hours |
| PHYS 5431 or equivalent | Classical Mechanics | 3 hours |
| PHYS 5531 or equivalent | Mathematical Methods in Physics I | 3 hours |
| PHYS 5631 or equivalent | Quantum Mechanics I | 3 hours |
| PHYS 5731 or equivalent | Statistical Mechanics and Thermodynamics | 3 hours |
Advanced SCE courses that meet the needs of students' professional goals may be selected in consultation with a faculty adviser.
Under the thesis option, a minimum of 24 hours of formal course work must be completed. In addition, students must complete a minimum of 6 hours of PHYS 6939; Master's Thesis Research. A maximum of 12 hours of PHYS 6939 can be applied toward graduation requirements. Remaining course work for a total of 36 hours may come from additional formal courses.
Under the extended course work option, a minimum of 30 hours of formal course work must be completed. In addition, students must choose an adviser and complete 3 credit hours of Independent Study Research (PHYS 5739 or PHYS 5939) and 3 hours in the Research Project and Seminar Course (PHYS 6838). Students completing the sub-plan in Technical Management should complete either PHYS 5739 or PHYS 6838 as a capstone.
A good technical manager needs both an advanced broad-based technical background and insight into how to lead a team of people from different technical disciplines. Because physics is the scientific basis of all engineering, it can satisfy much of the broad-based technical requirement for a degree training technical managers. The physics core is complimented by a combination of systems engineering and management courses in order to create a plan that provides both the technical background and the leadership training. This results in a unique new approach to training technical managers. Please note that this sub-plan can only be completed with the non-thesis option.
Systems Engineering (at least two courses): 6 hours
| SENG 5230 | Systems Engineering Economics | 3 hours |
| SENG 5231 | Concurrent Engineering | 3 hours |
| SENG 5330 | Risk Management | 3 hours |
| SENG 5332 | Decision Analysis for Systems Engineering | 3 hours |
Management (at least two courses): 6 hours
| MGMT 5032 | Human Behavior in Organizations | 3 hours |
| MGMT 5133 | Teamwork & Leadership Skills: Theory in Practice | 3 hours |
| MGMT 5638 | Managing Technical & Professional People | 3 hours |
Approved Electives: 6 hours
Approved courses in SCE (All ASTR, PHYS and SENG courses qualify) and any approved course in the School of Business.
The first program of its kind, the Collaborative UHCL\UH Physics Ph.D. Program establishes a partnership between the master's degree program at UHCL and the Ph.D. program at UH. Select faculty at UH and UHCL hold joint appointments which allow them to ensure the smooth transition of their students from the M.S. to the Ph.D. program. In addition, a Joint Admission Committee helps advise students on their transition.
Six UHCL Physics courses (taken with their co-requisites) PHYS 5331: Electrodynamics I, PHYS 5431: Classical Mechanics, PHYS 5531: Mathematical Methods in Physics I, PHYS 5631 and 5632: Quantum Mechanics I and II, and PHYS 5731: Statistical Mechanics and Thermodynamics will count towards PhD candidacy at UH. A candidate must earn a grade of B or better in the class and on the final exam. Students exploring this option must apply for PhD candidacy through the UH/UHCL Physics Joint Admissions Committee. Students accepted into the collaborative PhD program will be subject to the same requirements as other PhD candidates in the UH Physics program. They will complete their PhD Thesis under the advisement of a UH and UHCL faculty committee. More information on the program can be found at http:// www.uhcl.edu/sce/collaborative.
Students completing the candidacy requirements for the Collaborative UHCL/UH Physics Ph.D. Program are eligible to receive a physics candidacy certificate. This certificate can be awarded to students independently of the Physics Master's Degree. A student pursuing a certificate has the option of switching to the Physics MS degree program at anytime during their enrollment in the certificate program and can apply all physics course-work taken towards the certificate to the MS degree. Qualified students pursuing the Physics MS degree have the option of applying for the certificate once the candidacy requirements are satisfied.