Biology

Research into the Microbial World introduces students to the invisible world of microbes and microorganisms and their impact on human life and ecosystems. The course focuses on the various types of microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, protists), the role of microbes within scientific technologies, the microbial antibiotic resistance crisis, the role of normal microbiota in the maintenance of health and ecosystems, and the search for novel antibiotics from soil microbes. Laboratory gives science and non-science students an opportunity to learn microscopy, aseptic technique, growing microorganisms, and the scientific method. Students participate in biomedical research, potentially identifying novel antibiotics from soil and fungal samples. No prior laboratory or scientific skills are required. (Students must also register for BIOL 110LW)

This Biology course covers the fundamental concepts of the molecular basis of life, cell theory, cell division, cellular respiration, photosynthesis, DNA, RNA, and basic genetics. It offers a survey of life and an introduction to taxonomy, evolution, and basic ecology. The course includes integrated laboratory work. 

Nutrition Lab entails a series of laboratory experiences designed to enhance and reinforce the concepts studied in BIOL112W. Topics include those explored in BIOL112W through laboratory work involving healthy dietary and exercise habits, health issues related to diet and weight, the analysis of food choices, the evaluation of dietary supplements, and the evaluation of potential food pathogens.

Human Anatomy and Physiology I offers students in Health or Medical Science a thorough background in anatomy and physiology. Topics include the organization of the human body; the terminology of anatomy; and an introduction to tissues, organs, and organ systems including the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, and sensory systems. Integrated laboratory work augments lecture topics and includes exercises in microscopy, dissection of laboratory specimens, study of human anatomical models, and exercises in human physiology. 

Human Anatomy and Physiology II provides further background in anatomy and physiology for students in Health or Medical Science.  It reviews the chemical and biological basis of organisms as well as the introduction to tissues, organs, and organ systems including the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, and sensory systems.  Integrated laboratory work augments lecture topics and includes exercises in microscopy, the study of fresh and preserved specimens, the study of anatomical models, and the exercises in human physiology. 

Human Biology introduces students to the structures and functions of the human body. Background information includes chemistry for human biology, cell structure and function, and human organization. Major topics include the digestive, circulatory, lymphatic, respiratory, urinary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, and reproductive systems, along with the senses and basic genetics. Laboratory activities are designed to enhance and reinforce selected lecture topics. Integrated laboratory work augments lecture topics. The course is designed for those involved in direct patient care as medical assistants or for those pursuing a career in medical billing and coding. It likewise meets the biology requirement for admission into the Nursing program. 

Microbiology introduces the principles and practices of microbiology. Topics include the human immune system; the nature and behavior of microorganisms; the principles of growth and reproduction of microorganisms; the identification of microorganisms through staining, pure culture, biochemical and antigenic techniques; and the epidemiology of communicable human diseases caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and helminths. Integrated laboratory work augments lecture topics.