Course Listings

Introduction to Human Anatomy and Physiology

BIOL 164 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: Prerequisite: BIOL 101, BIOL 103, or BIOL 160. An introduction to the anatomy and physiology of the human organism. Topics include basic concepts of physics and chemistry that are necessary for understanding biological functions and the structure and function of cells, tissues, and the major organ systems in the body. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: BIOL 164 or GNSC 161.

Human Genetics

BIOL 220 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: An introduction to the role of genes in inheritance of traits and genetic diseases and disorders. The goal is to understand how genes affect physical appearance and behavior. Topics include Mendelian and non-Mendelian inheritance of human genetic diseases, human genetic variation, and mechanisms underlying human diseases. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: BIOL 220, BIOL 222, or BSCI 222.

Biology of Coral Reefs

BIOL 398E | 3 Credits

Course Desc: A study of the coral reef ecosystem with lectures, fieldwork, and lab work. Special attention will be given to the biology of corals, identification of common organisms living on the reef, and their relationship with corals.

The Biology of Cancer

BIOL 304 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: (For students majoring in both science and nonscience disciplines.) An overview of the biological basis of cancer. The goal is to apply knowledge of cancer biology to adopt appropriate lifestyle strategies and evaluate current treatments. The causes, development, and progression of cancer are considered at the level of cell structure and function. The roles of genes and proteins are also examined. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: BIOL 304 or GNSC 398C.

Laboratory in Human Biology

BIOL 161 | 1 Credit

Course Desc: (Fulfills the laboratory science requirement only with previous or concurrent credit for BIOL 160.) Prerequisite or corequisite: BIOL 160. A laboratory study that uses the human organism as an example to illustrate the concepts underlying the organization and interrelationships of all living organisms.

Bioethics

BIOL 328 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: Recommended: BIOL 101 and WRTG 112 or equivalent. An introduction to ethical decision making related to human life and health. The aim is to form defensible positions and carefully crafted arguments based on well-supported evidence. Discussion covers reproductive issues, biological research, and healthcare. Emphasis is on scientific and philosophical thinking.

Botany Laboratory

BIOL 121 | 1 Credit

Course Desc: (Not for students majoring or minoring in science. Fulfills the laboratory science requirement only with previous or concurrent credit for 120.) Prerequisite or corequisite: BIOL 120. An introduction to the taxonomy, anatomy, and physiology of plants, including examination of their evolutionary and ecological interactions.

Human Anatomy and Physiology II

BIOL 202 | 4 Credits

Course Desc: (Fulfills the laboratory science requirement.) Prerequisite: BIOL 101, BIOL 103, or BIOL 160. An introduction to the anatomy and physiology of the sensory, cardiovascular, endocrine, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, excretory, immune, and reproductive systems. Intermediary metabolism and endocrine relationships are also studied. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: BIOL 202 or ZOOL 202.

Human Health and Disease

BIOL 301 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: (For students majoring in both science and nonscience disciplines.) A survey of the mechanisms of disease and their expression in major organ systems of the human body. The goal is to use scientific reasoning to make informed decisions about matters related to human biology and health. Topics include infections, cancer, heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, stroke, malnutrition, poisoning by environmental toxins, stress, inflammation, disorders of the immune system, and aging. Emphasis is on analysis of factors that cause disruption of healthy body functions, leading to disease, and on prevention of disease through control of risk factors and early detection. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: BIOL 301 or BIOL 398H.

The Role of Nutrition in Cancer and Heart Disease

BIOL 398J | 1 Credit

Course Desc: A study of the relationship between diet and the development of cancer and heart disease at the level of molecules, cells, and genes. The aim is to examine the scientific and epidemiological evidence supporting the roles of various foods, nutrients, antioxidants, fiber, fats, and genetics in the progression or prevention of these two major causes of mortality. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: BIOL 398J or GNSC 398F.