UG Course Descriptions

Designed for those interested in the health sciences, this course includes the principles of cellular life: the chemistry, the structure, and the energetics of the cell as well as the principles of inheritance: cell division, chromosomes, human heredity, DNA structure and function, protein synthesis, recombinant DNA and genetic engineering. Laboratory activities will complement these topics. 2 hours lecture, 2 hours laboratory

Designed for students with little or no science background, this online course provides an overview of various communicable diseases. The biological basis, mode of transmission, and treatments will be discussed as well as strategies for prevention and containment. The laboratory combines experimental and clinical investigations of several types of disease causing agents. 2 hours lecture, 2 hours laboratory

This online course is designed for students with no science background who wish to better understand how humans affect our ecosystem at the local, regional, and global scale. Using online discussions, essays, and laboratory reports, students will examine and analyze the intricacies of human-related environmental issues and problems. Some examples of this include global climate change, human population growth, and water and air pollution. This course requires considerable independent thought, critical reading and thinking, and an interest in human impacts on our natural world. 2 hours lecture, 2 hours laboratory.

This class is designed for students with no science background to learn the basics of how our environment functions. We cover both living and non-living variables that contribute to a healthy environment. Some examples of this include the fundamentals of biodiversity (plants and animals), conservation, oceanography, weather, and sustainability. Additionally, this course presents an overview of current environmental issues. Emphasis is placed on using class discussions, laboratory investigations, and student presentations to study and analyze these issues. Students will leave this course with a better understanding of the environment and a greater appreciation for the natural world around us. 2 hours lecture, 2 hours laboratory.

Designed for students in business and those interested in the modern-day applications and controversies of biotechnology. This course will identify and explain the multi-step process of recombinant DNA technology and expression of a protein product and develop a business plan for its marketing. This course will also investigate biotech stocks and the use of bio-organisms as producers of energy. (Fulfills a core requirement) 2 hours of lecture, 2 hours of laboratory.

Introduction to the basic principles of microbiology for students interested in the allied health professions, nutrition and food service management fields. This course is designed to provide a solid working knowledge of microorganisms and their relation to food, sanitation, health, and industry. 2 hours lecture, 2 hours laboratory

A study of basic human genetics with a primary focus on gene transmission from generation to generation. Topics covered include gene transmission, gene expression, and biotechnology including genetic testing. Laboratory will focus on techniques used for diagnosis of genetic diseases. 2 hours lecture, 2 hours laboratory

An introduction to the anatomy and physiology of the human body. All systems of the body will be considered with an emphasis on normal anatomy and physiology. 2 hours lecture and 2 hours laboratory

An exploration of the structure and function of microorganisms as they relate to the economy of nature; the role of pathogens in human disease; and methods of prevention of contamination.
3 hours lecture, 2 hours laboratory

A study of the underlying process, at the cell, organ, and system levels of organization, which are the backbone of our modern understanding of the functioning human body; covers integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. 3 hours lecture, 2 hours laboratory