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Course Descriptions

The following is a complete listing of courses offered at MCC. You can also visit our Programs of Study page for a list of course requirements necessary to complete your degree.

Please note: Special Studies is a general heading for experimental courses or those for which the demand is untested, unknown, immediate, or temporary. You can visit our Special Studies page for a list of Special Studies courses.

Click on the arrow to view a list of course descriptions for each program.

Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">AAD - Applied Art and Design</div>]
AAD - Applied Art and Design
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">ACC - Accounting</div>]
ACC - Accounting
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">ACD - Alcohol/Chemical Dependency</div>]
ACD - Alcohol/Chemical Dependency
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">AGS - Agricultural Studies</div>]
AGS - Agricultural Studies
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">ANT - Anthropology</div>]
ANT - Anthropology
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">ARA - Arabic/Foreign Language</div>]
ARA - Arabic/Foreign Language
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">ART - Art</div>]
ART - Art
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">ASL - American Sign Language/Foreign Language</div>]
ASL - American Sign Language/Foreign Language
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">ATP - Automotive Technology</div>]
ATP - Automotive Technology
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">BIO - Biology</div>]
BIO - Biology
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">BUS - Business</div>]
BUS - Business
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">CDL - Interdisciplinary</div>]
CDL - Interdisciplinary
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">CE  - Disney College Program Internship</div>]
CE - Disney College Program Internship
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">CEL - Leadership</div>]
CEL - Leadership
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">CHE - Chemistry</div>]
CHE - Chemistry
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">CHI - Chinese/Foreign Language</div>]
CHI - Chinese/Foreign Language
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">CIN - Cinema Studies</div>]
CIN - Cinema Studies
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">Cinema Studies</div>]
Cinema Studies
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">CIS - Computer Information Systems</div>]
CIS - Computer Information Systems
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">CIT - Civil and Construction Technology</div>]
CIT - Civil and Construction Technology
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">CLT - Clinical Laboratory Technician</div>]
CLT - Clinical Laboratory Technician
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">COM - Communication</div>]
COM - Communication
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">COS - College Success</div>]
COS - College Success
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">CPT - Computer Technology</div>]
CPT - Computer Technology
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">CRC - Computer Related Curricula</div>]
CRC - Computer Related Curricula
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">CRJ - Criminal Justice</div>]
CRJ - Criminal Justice
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">CSC - Computer Science</div>]
CSC - Computer Science
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">DAS - Dental Assisting</div>]
DAS - Dental Assisting
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">DEN - Dental Hygiene</div>]
DEN - Dental Hygiene
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">EBL - Experience Based Learning</div>]
EBL - Experience Based Learning
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">ECE - Education and Early Care</div>]
ECE - Education and Early Care
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">ECO - Economics</div>]
ECO - Economics
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">EDU - Education</div>]
EDU - Education
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">ELT - Electrical Engineering Technology/Electronics</div>]
ELT - Electrical Engineering Technology/Electronics
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">EMS - Emergency Medical Services</div>]
EMS - Emergency Medical Services
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">ENG - English Literature</div>]
ENG - English Literature
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">ENG - English Writing</div>]
ENG - English Writing
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">ENR - Engineering Science</div>]
ENR - Engineering Science
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">ESL - English For Speakers Of Other Languages (ESOL)</div>]
ESL - English For Speakers Of Other Languages (ESOL)
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">FPT - Fire Protection Technology</div>]
FPT - Fire Protection Technology
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">FRE - French/Foreign Language</div>]
FRE - French/Foreign Language
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">FSA - Food Service Administration</div>]
FSA - Food Service Administration
Hide details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">GEG - Geography</div>]
GEG - Geography
GEG 100 - Physical Geography I Laboratory
Physical Geography I Lab explores the hands-on, practical applications of basic knowledge gained in the companion course, GEG 101 Physical Geography I. Exercises involve use of maps, atlases, and scientific equipment to observe, measure, and analyze the spatial significance of natural phenomena on and near Earth's surface. NOTE: This course meets SUNY General Education Natural Science and (Scientific Reasoning) SUNY-NSCI requirements when both GEG 100 and GEG 101 are successfully completed. 1 Credit.

Corequisite: Physical Geography (GEG101).
GEG 101 - Physical Geography I
Physical Geography is the science concerned with the spatial aspects and interactions of the physical elements and processes that make-up the environment. GEG 101 is an introductory course presented through two of Earth’s major spheres: the atmosphere and hydrosphere. Topics include Earth/Sun relations, Earth’s energy budget, atmospheric temperature, moisture and precipitation, winds, weather, climate, and Earth’s water. NOTE: This course meets SUNY General Education Natural Science and (Scientific Reasoning), (SUNY-NSCI) requirements when both GEG 100 and GEG 101 are successfully completed. GEG 100 may be taken concurrently or in a later semester, but will not have satisfied the SUNY requirement (SUNY-NSCI) until both GEG 101 and GEG 100 are successfully completed. 3 Credits.
GEG 102 - Human Geography
Human Geography is the spatial analysis of human populations, their cultures, their activities and behaviors, and their relationship with, and impact on, the physical landscapes they occupy. GEG 102 is an introductory course presented through two major themes: population geography and cultural geography. Topics include migration, languages, religions, ethnicities, and cemeteries. 3 Credits.
GEG 103 - Introduction to Meteorology Lab
Introduction to Meteorology Lab explores the hands-on, practical applications of basic knowledge gained in the companion course, GEG 104 Weather and Climate. Exercises involve use of maps, atlases, weather maps and charts, radar and satellite data, observational weather data and measure, and using the above mentioned for creating an operational weather forecast. NOTE: This course meets SUNY General Education Natural Science (and Scientific Reasoning) SUNY-NSCI requirements when both GEG 103 and GEG 104 are successfully completed. 1 Credit.

Prerequisite or co-requisite: GEG 104.
GEG 104 - Introduction to Meteorology
Weather is the scientific study of atmospheric processes and patterns, and their impact on human activities. This introductory meteorology course examines the collection and analysis of meteorological data at local, regional, and global scales. Topics include heat, moisture, and wind dynamics of the atmosphere; application of satellite and radar data; development and impact of thunderstorms, tornadoes and hurricanes; weather analysis and forecasting. NOTE: This course meets SUNY General Education Natural Science and (Scientific Reasoning), SUNY-NSCI requirements when both GEG 103 and GEG 104 are successfully completed. GEG 103 may be taken concurrently or in a later semester, but will not have satisfied the SUNY requirement (SUNY-NSCI) until both GEG 103 and GEG 104 are successfully completed. 3 Credits.
GEG 110 - Physical Geography II Lab
Physical Geography II Lab explores the hands-on, practical applications of basic knowledge gained in the companion course, Physical Geography II (GEG-111). Exercises involve use of maps, atlases, GPS units, and other geographic tools to observe, measure, and analyze the spatial significance of Earth's plants, animals, and landforms. NOTE: This course meets SUNY General Education Natural Science and (Scientific Reasoning), SUNY-NSCI requirements when both GEG 110 and GEG 111 are successfully completed. 1 Credit.

Corequisite: Physical Geography II (GEG-111). Students that take GEG 110 are required to be taking or have taken GEG 111.
GEG 111 - Physical Geography II
Physical Geography II is the study of spatial patterns and natural processes on Earth. As an introductory course, GEG 111 explores where and why plants, animals, and landforms occur where they do. Students will develop a better understanding of the natural environment and our role within it. Key topics include maps and map making, plants and animals (biogeography), as well as landforms (geomorphology) caused by volcanoes, earthquakes, glaciers, and rivers. NOTE: This course meets SUNY General Education Natural Science and (Scientific Reasoning), (SUNY-NSCI) requirements when both GEG 110 and GEG 111 are successfully completed. 3 Credits.
GEG 130 - Digital Earth
Digital Earth provides students with an introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS). In this course, students will work with computer-based tools to create, analyze, and map data. Introductory geospatial skills will be covered through hands-on lab exercises themed around various topics such as: the natural landscape, renewable energy, sustainability, crime, business, and census data. A final project will provide students with the opportunity to use geospatial technology, combined with real-world data, to explore a topic of their choosing and create original maps that begin to find the answer to a research question. A sustainability elective (GR). This is a lab course. 4 Credits.
GEG 131 - Cartography
This course introduces fundamental cartographic concepts. Upon completion of this course, successful students will be able to employ design principles to create effective visual representations of geographic data (e.g. maps) in different formats (e.g. hardcopy, digital, web). Specific topics include map element design, typography, label design, selecting appropriate color schemes, and symbology. Basic computer skills will be required to be successful in this course. 3 Credits.
GEG 133 - Introduction to Remote Sensing
Introduction to the fundamentals of Geospatial Technology, with a focus on remote sensing but also including Geographic Information Systems (GIS), global positioning system (GPS), cartography, and spatial analysis. Students will be guided through a series of lectures and hands‐on computer‐based exercises. An end of a semester project will allow students to work on a project of their own design. Course material used are based upon the United States Department of Labor’s Geospatial Technology Competency Model (GCTM) for entry level geospatial occupations including Geospatial or GIS Technicians or Technologists. Prior computer knowledge or GIS experience will be required to be successful in this course. This is a lab course. 3 Credits.
GEG 200 - World Regional Geography
World Regional Geography is a broad exploration of the physical and human geography of Earth. As a survey course, GEG 200 examines the cultural, economic, environmental, and political characteristics of the world’s regions from a geographic perspective. Major topics include population, political and economic systems, development, globalization, areas of conflict, environmental issues, and current events. 3 Credits.
GEG 203 - Climatology Lab
Central to understanding the predictions for future global warming is identifying the key components that operate within the climate system. This laboratory is designed to provide students with the tools necessary to understand the science behind global warming. Students will take the role of climate investigators and learn how changes in the climate system are analyzed through the use of simple models. Ultimately students will gain an understanding of how factors that affect climate are used to construct a geographical pattern of future warming on a global scale. 1 Credit.

Prerquisite(s): GEG 204 completed or concurrently enrolled in
GEG 204 - Introduction to Climatology
This course offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding future changes in the Earth’s climate. Students will learn how the Earth’s climate system operates and gain an informed perspective of future global climate change. Topics include measuring changes in greenhouse gases, tools used in modeling and interpreting past climate, ice ages, recent global warming, future climate projections, strategies to potentially slow and stabilize climate change, and the outlook of our future energy use. 3 Credits.

GEG 203 completed or concurrently enrolled in
GEG 211 - Economic Geography
Economic Geography is the study of the location of economic activities, the spatial patterns of production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services, and the ways humans support themselves. GEG 211 is presented through four major themes: political geography, location theory, urban geography, and economic development. Topics include agriculture, industry, services, and resource issues. 3 Credits.
GEG 215 - Geography of Travel and Tourism
The Geography of Travel and Tourism is the spatial analysis of human leisure behavior and includes the exploration of local, national, and international attractions and destinations. As a survey course, GEG 215 is presented through two major themes: thematic and regional geography. Topics include resources and demand for tourism, adventure travel, beach tourism, cultural travel, rural and urban tourism, service and volunteer travel, and special event tourism. 3 Credits.
GEG 220 - Geography of Genocide
Geography of Genocide is the spatial analysis of modern acts of genocide and crimes against humanity. GEG 220 increases student knowledge of the diversity of the global society in which we live including but not limited to: racial and ethnic minorities and the “others” who have been historically segregated, discriminated, and/or victims of genocide and crimes against humanity due to their age, color or race, creed, class or socioeconomic status, ethnic or national origin, mental or physical ability, gender and sexual identity, sexual orientation, religion or belief system, or any other basis of hate. Major topics include anti-Semitism, ethnocentrism, racism, xenophobia, the Armenian Genocide, Holodomor, Holocaust, Indonesian Genocide, Cambodian Genocide, Rwandan Genocide, and Bosnian Genocide. 3 Credits.
GEG 230 - Spatial Analysis and GIS
This course introduces students to geospatial analyses that are used for problem-solving and decision-making. Students will learn how to perform these analyses using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software. As a guiding framework, this course shows how GIS is used to answer fundamental questions in geography that are related to problem-solving and decision-making in a wide range of careers and academic disciplines. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to make informed decisions when choosing GIS-based approaches for conducting geospatial analyses. 3 Credits.

Prerequisite(s): GEG 130 with a grade of C or higher
GEG 236 - Geospatial Data Acquisition and Management
This course addresses the interpretation and understanding of a variety of data formats used by geospatial professionals. It introduces the fundamental concepts such as primary Geospatial Information Science (GIS) data creation, geodatabase design and creation, data management, and discusses quantitative techniques for the collection, classification, integration, and management of geographical data. Advanced topics include: UAS data collection and processing, mobile data collection, automation using Python and enterprise geodatabases. Students will be guided through a series of lectures hands-on computer-based exercises, and an end of semester project. 3 Credits.

Prerequisite(s): GEG 133 or permission of the instructor
GEG 237 - Web Mapping
This course is an introduction to Web-based GIS. Students will learn about the usefulness and application of Web GIS tools such as Google Earth, Google Maps, ArcGIS Online, Volunteered Geographic Information, and Map services (QGIS Server, Mapbox, GISCloud, or ArcGIS Server). Students will become adept at storing and accessing spatial data in the cloud, practice developing Story Maps to communicate spatial data, and learn how web mapping is key to mobile GIS applications such as field data collection. Students will be guided through a series of lectures and hands‐on computer‐based lab exercises. An end of a semester project will allow students to work on a project of their own design. Course material used are based upon the United States Department of Labor’s Geospatial Technology Competency Model (GCTM) for entry level geospatial occupations including Geospatial or GIS Technicians or Technologists. Prior introductory GIS experience will be required to be successful in this course. This is a lab course. Two lecture hours, 3 Credits.

Prerequisite(s): GEG 130, or permission of the instructor
GEG 238 - Introduction to Geospatial Programming
This course teaches how to customize and automate Geospatial Information Science (GIS) applications using the Python scripting language. Automation can make your work easier, faster, and more accurate, and knowledge of a scripting language is a highly desired skill in GIS analysts. This course dedicates time to theory and implementation of the various scripting languages currently in use. Upon completion, students will be able to solve geospatial problems and streamline GIS workflows through the creation and modification of scripts. Students will be guided through a series of lectures and hands‐on computer‐based lab exercises. Course material used are based upon the United States Department of Labor’s Geospatial Technology Competency Model (GCTM) for entry level geospatial occupations including Geospatial or GIS Technicians or Technologists. 3 Credits.

Prerequisite(s): GEG 130, GEG 133, and GEG 230 or GEG 236 all with a grade of C or higher, or instructor permission
GEG 239 - Capstone in Geospatial Technology
The capstone is a learning experience resulting in a consolidation of a student's educational experience and certifies mastery of entry level workplace geospatial technician competencies unique to western New York’s GIST market. The capstone experience should occur towards the last semester of the student's educational program. Methods of the capstone experience include: a final learning experience that allows a student to apply broad knowledge of the discipline; a comprehensive examination prepared by the faculty of the geospatial education program; and a course involving simulation of the workplace (mobile GIS), case studies, service learning, internships, or employment scenarios. Students will develop a personal GIS portfolio highlighting their Capstone experience that provides evidence of their geospatial competency, and will learn how to compile, analyze, and present geospatial data while emphasizing the value of visual communication. 2 Credits.

Prerequisites: GEG 101, GEG 130, GEG 131, and GEG 133, all with a grade of C or higher. Co-Requisite GEG230.
GEG 290 - Independent Study
See the Department Chairperson. 3 Credits.
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">GEO - Geology</div>]
GEO - Geology
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">GER - German/Foreign Language</div>]
GER - German/Foreign Language
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">GLF - Golf Management</div>]
GLF - Golf Management
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">HBR - Hebrew/Foreign Language</div>]
HBR - Hebrew/Foreign Language
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">HED - Health Education</div>]
HED - Health Education
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">HEG - Health Education Global</div>]
HEG - Health Education Global
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">HIM - Health Information Technology</div>]
HIM - Health Information Technology
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">HIS - History</div>]
HIS - History
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">HMN - Humanities</div>]
HMN - Humanities
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">HON - Honors Studies</div>]
HON - Honors Studies
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">Honors Studies</div>]
Honors Studies
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">HSM - Homeland Security Administration</div>]
HSM - Homeland Security Administration
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">HSP - Hospitality</div>]
HSP - Hospitality
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">HUM - Human Services</div>]
HUM - Human Services
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">HVA - Heating, Ventilating & Air Conditioning</div>]
HVA - Heating, Ventilating & Air Conditioning
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">IDE - Interior Design</div>]
IDE - Interior Design
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">ITA - Italian/Foreign Language</div>]
ITA - Italian/Foreign Language
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">JPN - Japanese/Foreign Language</div>]
JPN - Japanese/Foreign Language
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">LAS - Liberal Arts</div>]
LAS - Liberal Arts
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">LAW - Law</div>]
LAW - Law
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">LDS - Leadership</div>]
LDS - Leadership
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">MAR - Marketing</div>]
MAR - Marketing
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">MET - Mechanical Technology</div>]
MET - Mechanical Technology
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">MMP - Automotive Technology</div>]
MMP - Automotive Technology
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">MTH - Mathematics</div>]
MTH - Mathematics
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">MUS - Music</div>]
MUS - Music
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">NUR - Nursing</div>]
NUR - Nursing
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">OFT - Office Technology</div>]
OFT - Office Technology
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">OPT - Optical Systems Technology</div>]
OPT - Optical Systems Technology
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">PE  - Physical Education--Coed</div>]
PE - Physical Education--Coed
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">PEC - Physical Education--Coed</div>]
PEC - Physical Education--Coed
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">PEJ - Physical Education-Criminal Justice</div>]
PEJ - Physical Education-Criminal Justice
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">PEM - Physical Education--Men</div>]
PEM - Physical Education--Men
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">PEW - Physical Education-Women</div>]
PEW - Physical Education-Women
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">PHL - Philosophy</div>]
PHL - Philosophy
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">PHO - Photography</div>]
PHO - Photography
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">PHY - Physics</div>]
PHY - Physics
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">PLE - Police: Law Enforcement</div>]
PLE - Police: Law Enforcement
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">PLS - Paralegal Studies</div>]
PLS - Paralegal Studies
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">POS - Political Science</div>]
POS - Political Science
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">PPE - Physical Studies/Physical Education</div>]
PPE - Physical Studies/Physical Education
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">PSC - Public Safety Communications</div>]
PSC - Public Safety Communications
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">PST - Public Safety Training</div>]
PST - Public Safety Training
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">PSY - Psychology</div>]
PSY - Psychology
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">Public Speaking</div>]
Public Speaking
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">REA - Reading</div>]
REA - Reading
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">SCI - Science</div>]
SCI - Science
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">SCR - Computer Security</div>]
SCR - Computer Security
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">SGT - Surgical Technology</div>]
SGT - Surgical Technology
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">SKT - Tooling and Machining</div>]
SKT - Tooling and Machining
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">SMT - Sports Management</div>]
SMT - Sports Management
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">SOC - Sociology</div>]
SOC - Sociology
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">SPA - Spanish/Foreign Language</div>]
SPA - Spanish/Foreign Language
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">SPC - Speech Communication</div>]
SPC - Speech Communication
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">STT - Solar Thermal Technology</div>]
STT - Solar Thermal Technology
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">SUS - Sustainability Studies</div>]
SUS - Sustainability Studies
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">SVL - Service Learning</div>]
SVL - Service Learning
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">TAM - Tooling and Machining</div>]
TAM - Tooling and Machining
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">TEK - Technology</div>]
TEK - Technology
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">THE - Theatre</div>]
THE - Theatre
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">TOY - Toyota</div>]
TOY - Toyota
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">TRS - Transitional Studies</div>]
TRS - Transitional Studies
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">TVL - Travel And Tourism</div>]
TVL - Travel And Tourism
Show details for [<div class="Course_Table_Content">XRT - Radiologic Technology</div>]
XRT - Radiologic Technology