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Course Description

The scientific method of investigation will be emphasized in topics relevant to the search for extraterrestrial life, from microbes to self-cognizant entities. The course presents current ideas concerning the origin of the atomic elements, star and planetary formation, environmental requirements and constraints, early cell formation and evolution, habitable zones, extremophiles, the potential for life in our solar system, exoplanets and their spectra, the Drake equation, intelligence, Kardashev classification, the Fermi paradox and related subjects.

Notes

On-campus exam requirement for online offerings: For online sections of this course, your midterm and final exam will be written in person at the Toronto Metropolitan University campus. If you live more than 100 km from the TMU campus, you may arrange to write your exam off-campus using an approved off-campus invigilation service. Details on your exam date and how to arrange off-campus invigilation can be found on the Exams for Online Courses webpage.

Requisites

Not available to Engineering students.

Relevant Programs

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Course Sections

Class Number
6003
Type
LEC
Days
F
Time
6:30PM to 9:30PM
Dates
Jan 09, 2026 to Apr 17, 2026
Schedule
Contact Hours
39.0
Location
  • Online
Delivery Options
online  
Fees
Domestic Fee non-credit $608.71 Click here to get more information
Domestic Out of Province Fee non-credit $0.00 Click here to get more information
International Fee non-credit $0.00 Click here to get more information
Class Number
1628
Type
LEC
Days
M, W
Time
6:00PM to 9:00PM
Dates
May 04, 2026 to Jun 17, 2026
Schedule
Contact Hours
39.0
Location
  • Online
Delivery Options
online  
Fees
Domestic Fee non-credit $608.71 Click here to get more information
Domestic Out of Province Fee non-credit $0.00 Click here to get more information
International Fee non-credit $0.00 Click here to get more information