As the spring semester winds down, it’s already time to start enrolling in fall classes! Looking to explore, experiment or expand your skills this fall? We’ve rounded up six standout Freshwater and Atmospheric Science courses to consider as you’re enrolling in classes in PAWS.
Spoiler: you don’t have to be a Freshwater Sciences major to take some of these courses! Some of them are Natural Science GER courses, open to anyone.
1. Ichthyology (FRSHWTR 511)
Get to know the fishes.
From tiny minnows to massive sturgeon, this course dives into the diverse biology of fishes focusing on behavioral, biomechanical, genetic, and physiological adaptions to diverse ecological systems. Whether you’re into research, conservation or just really love fish, this one’s for you.
- 3 credits, Mondays 11:30am-2:20pm at the School of Freshwater Sciences (not on main campus)
- Instructor: Brandon Gerig
- Prerequisites: junior standing and BIO SCI 152, consent of instructor, or graduate standing
2. From Feed to Fish: Science and Innovation (Special Topics) [UG: FRSHWTR 300, G: FRSHWTR 650G]
Where aquaculture meets health, science, and sustainability.
Dive into the science behind what fish eat—and why it matters. This course connects fish nutrition, physiology, and health to big-picture issues like sustainable aquaculture, ecosystem monitoring, and even human medicine. You’ll explore how feed impacts fish growth, immune function, and seafood quality, while also learning how fish serve as environmental bioindicators and biomedical models. A perfect fit for students interested in food systems, conservation, and cutting-edge research.
- 3 credits, Mondays 11:30am-2:20pm on main campus (one lab Saturday, October 4, 9am-5pm)
- Instructor: Dong-Fang Deng
- Prerequisites: BIO SCI 150 and CHEM 102, consent of instructor, or graduate standing
3. Elements of Water (FRSHWTR 101)
The science behind Earth’s most vital resource.
From drinking water to droughts, this course breaks down the role of freshwater in our world. You’ll explore how water supports life, shapes economies, and drives climate—plus what happens when the cycle is disrupted. No science background necessary—just curiosity and a desire to understand today’s most important resource. This is a core course within the Freshwater Sciences BS program. It’s also a Natural Science GER course! Fulfill your NS credit requirements with this unique course!
- 3 credits, Tuesday/Thursdays 10-11:15am on main campus
- Instructor: Sandra McLellan
- No prerequisites!
4. Survey of Meteorology (ATM SCI 100)
Understand the science behind the skies.
From sunny days to severe storms, this course unpacks how weather works and why it matters. You’ll learn to read weather maps, decode forecasts, and explore phenomena like tornadoes, cyclones, and climate trends. Includes a hands-on lab—no science background needed, just an interest in the world around you. This is a Natural Science GER course that fulfills the lab requirement. Open to anyone!
- 3 credits, Mondays/Wednesdays 10:30-11:20am in-person lecture on main campus OR asynchronous online lecture and in-person or online lab options
- Instructor: George Duffy
- No prerequisites!
5. Thunderstorms, Tornadoes and Hurricanes (ATM SCI 109)
Go inside the storm.
Explore how and why nature’s most extreme weather events form. From towering thunderstorms to devastating hurricanes, this course breaks down the atmospheric conditions that fuel them. Learn the science behind the storm systems that shape headlines (and history). This is a Natural Science GER course. Fulfill your NS credit requirements with this course!
- 3 credits, Online course
- Instructor: George Duffy
- No prerequisites!
6. The Origin, Composition, and Structure of Planetary Atmospheres (ATM SCI 110)
What makes a planet… a planet?
Travel through our solar system to explore how planets—and their atmospheres—form and evolve. From Earth to Jupiter, you’ll compare the chemistry, structure, and origins of planetary atmospheres, and uncover what makes each world unique. No rocket science required—just curiosity.
- 3 credits, Online course
- Instructor: James Frederick
So, which courses will you dive into?
These just barely scratch the surface of all the great courses offered within Freshwater Sciences and Atmospheric Science. Check out our Fall course catalog to see what else will be offered!
Fall enrollment appointments have already began and your appointments will differ depending on your grade. If you haven’t already spoken with your academic advisor, we highly encourage you to do so and sign up for classes as soon as you are able to. Classes will fill up! Happy class shopping!