This page outlines the degree requirements for Human Biology. This page is not an official list of degree requirements. Adjustments may be required due to curriculum changes. Current students should refer to their interactive degree audit.
Please contact our academic advisor if you have any questions or wish to review your academic plan.
Major Requirements
Required Biology Courses
Introduction to fields and career opportunities in the biological sciences.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-1-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Biochem & Molec Biology-Bio Sc, Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, Human Biology, Biological Sciences, Computational Biology; Must be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman, Sophomore
A discussion of the principles of ecology and organismal biology, using the theme of physiological ecology and adaptations. This course will emphasize biodiversity, scientific method, experimental design, and written and oral presentation of results.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
Covers principles of ecology and organismal biology, using the theme of physiological ecology and adaptations. This course will emphasize biodiversity, scientific method, experimental design, and written and oral presentation of results.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
- Co-Requisite(s): BL 1100
Discussion of the major principles by which life is organized. Topics include scientific methods, biological chemistry, cell structure and organization, multicellular organization, diversity of organisms, energetics and photosynthesis, cellular reproduction genetics, gene structure and expression, and recombinant DNA.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, Summer
Topics include scientific methods, biological chemistry, cell structure and organization, multicellular organization, diversity of organisms, energetics and photosynthesis, cellular reproduction genetics, gene structure and expression, and recombinant DNA.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, Summer
- Co-Requisite(s): BL 1200
Comprehensive introductory course in vertebrate anatomy and physiology with emphasis on the human body. Interrelates structure with function in regard to maintaining homeostasis and normal functioning of the body. Covers the integument, skeletal system, muscles, the nervous system, and special senses.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
The laboratory to accompany BL2010. Examines embryology, muscle and skeletal anatomy, and neuroanatomy. Explores the physiology of the nervous system, including vision and reflexes and muscle physiology. A student-designed lab project is used to teach experimental design.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-2)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2010(C)
Continuation of BL2010. Covers the cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, renal, and reproductive systems.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2010
The laboratory to accompany BL2020. Examines the structure and function of the digestive, respiratory, cardiovascular, and renal systems. A student-designed lab project is used to teach experimental design.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-2)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2011 and BL 2020(C)
A study of classical and molecular genetics. Topics include one- and two-locus genetics, recombination, gene structure, regulation and function, quantitative and population genetics, and genetic engineering. Covers both prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 1020 or BL 1040 or BE 2400 or (BL 1200 and BL 1210) or (BL 1400 and BL 1410)
Emphasis on genetic and molecular biology laboratory techniques, including Mendelian analysis, and molecular cloning, Includes Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CUREs) that cover the basis of scientific research in the life sciences.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2200(C)
Covers basic and applied chemistry and biology of human nutrition. Includes practical information on planning and adopting a healthy diet as well as maintaining acceptable weight. Emphasizes social, global, and environmental issues pertinent to use of the world food supply.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, Summer
Students will develop and improve their skill level in searching for scientific literature, incorporating that into scientific writing, evaluating and incorporating the work of others, and develop critique skills for review of scientific source material and basic statistical methods.
- Credits: 2.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-2-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Biochem & Molec Biology-Bio Sc, Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, Human Biology, Biological Sciences, Computational Biology; May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
Introduction to health issues, such as: infectious diseases, obesity, mental health, healthcare disparities, health insurance, drug addiction, and vaccines. Students will analyze health issues from a diverse cultural, ethical, social, and global perspective.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
Required Chemistry Courses
Introduces the foundations of chemistry, including electronic structure of atoms and molecules, intermolecular forces, states of matter, chemical reactions, organic chemistry, chemical equilibria, kinetics, and acid-base chemistry. Includes laboratory component that emphasizes lecture components.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Co-Requisite(s): CH 1151
- Pre-Requisite(s): MA 1031(C) or MA 1032(C) or MA 1120(C) or MA 1160(C) or MA 1161(C) or MA 1135(C) or MA 1121(C) or ALEKS Math Placement >= 61 or CEEB Calculus AB >= 2 or CEEB Calculus BC >= 2 or CEEB Calculus AB Subscore >= 2 or ACT Mathematics >= 22 or SAT MATH SECTION SCORE-M16 >= 540
Laboratory to accompany CH1150.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Co-Requisite(s): CH 1150
- Pre-Requisite(s): MA 1031(C) or MA 1032(C) or MA 1120(C) or MA 1160(C) or MA 1161(C) or MA 1135(C) or MA 1121(C) or ALEKS Math Placement >= 61 or CEEB Calculus AB >= 2 or CEEB Calculus BC >= 2 or CEEB Calculus AB Subscore >= 2 or ACT Mathematics >= 22 or SAT MATH SECTION SCORE-M16 >= 540
A continuation of CH 1150. Introduces more complex concepts in chemistry, including kinetics, chemical equilibria, acid-base equilibria, thermodynamics, electrochemistry, and chemical analysis. Additional topics may include chemistry of the metals and non-metals, biochemical systems, and nuclear chemistry. Includes laboratory component that emphasizes lecture concepts.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Co-Requisite(s): CH 1161
- Pre-Requisite(s): CH 1112 or (CH 1150 and CH 1151)
Laboratory to accompany CH1160.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Co-Requisite(s): CH 1160
- Pre-Requisite(s): CH 1112 or (CH 1150 and CH 1151)
A study of the chemistry of carbon compounds. Review of hybrid orbitals, covalent bonding, and resonance. Introduction to nomenclature, stereochemistry, mass spectrometry and infrared spectroscopy, functional group chemistry based on reaction mechanisms, and multi-step synthesis.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): CH 1122 or (CH 1160 and CH 1161)
Laboratory to accompany CH2410.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): (CH 2410(C) or CH 2430(C)) and CH 1122 or (CH 1160 and CH 1161)
Covers more functional group chemistry based on reaction mechanisms; more involved multi-step synthesis; introduction to nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy; introduction to carbohydrates, amino acids, proteins, nucleic acids; and topics of specialized interest.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): CH 2410
Laboratory to accompany CH2420.
- Credits: 2.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-4)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): CH 2411 and (CH 2420(C) or CH 2440(C))
Required Math and Physics Courses
Topics include limits, continuity of functions, transcendental functions, derivatives, integrals, and applications of the derivative in the fields of economics, biological sciences, and social sciences. Credit applicable only to those curricula specifying this course.
- Credits: 4.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-4-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following College(s): College of Engineering
- Pre-Requisite(s): MA 1032 or MA 1031 or MA 1120 or ALEKS Math Placement >= 76 or CEEB Calculus AB >= 2 or CEEB Calculus BC >= 2 or CEEB Calculus AB Subscore >= 2 or ACT Mathematics >= 26 or SAT MATH SECTION SCORE-M16 >= 610
Introduction to the design and analysis of statistical studies in the health and life sciences. Topics include study design, descriptive and graphical methods, probability, inference on means, categorical data analysis, and linear regression.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): MA 1135 or MA 1160 or MA 1161 or MA 1121 or MA 2160(C) or MA 3160(C)
An overview of basic principles of kinematics, dynamics, elasticity, fluids, heat, thermodynamics, mechanical waves, and interference and diffraction of mechanical waves.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following College(s): College of Engineering; May not be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Applied Physics, General Technology, Construction Management, Computer Network & System Admn, Electrical Eng Tech, Information Technology, Physics
- Co-Requisite(s): PH 1111
- Pre-Requisite(s): (MA 1031 or MA 1032 or MA 1120 or MA 1135(C) or MA 1160(C) or MA 1161(C) or MA 1121(C) or ALEKS Math Placement >= 76 or CEEB Calculus AB >= 2 or CEEB Calculus BC >= 2 or CEEB Calculus AB Subscore >= 2 or ACT Mathematics >= 26 or SAT MATH SECTION SCORE-M16 >= 610) and (PH 1100 or PH 1111(C) or PH 1141 or PH 1161)
Experiments covering kinematics, forces, conservation of momentum and energy, waves, and thermodynamics are explored through guided construction. The course provides inquiry-based laboratory experiences for concepts explored in PH1110.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-2)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Physics, Applied Physics
- Pre-Requisite(s): PH 1140(C) or PH 1110(C)
An overview of basic principles of static and dynamic electricity and magnetism, electromagnetic waves, reflection and refraction of light, interference and diffraction of light, special theory of relativity, wave theory of matter, particle theory of electromagnetic waves, theory of the atom, the nucleus, and elementary particles.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following College(s): College of Engineering; May not be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Applied Physics, Physics, Surveying Engineering, Computer Network & System Admn, Electrical Eng Tech, General Technology, Mechanical Engineering Tech, Information Technology, Construction Management
- Pre-Requisite(s): PH 1200(C) and (PH 1110 or PH 1100)
Experiments covering Coulomb's law, electric and magnetic fields, circuits, induction, and geometric optics are explored through guided construction. The course emphasizes understanding physical concepts through inquiry and the scientific method.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-2)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): PH 1100 or PH 1111 or PH 1141 or PH 1161
Major Electives
Choose at least 9 credits in the following biology courses
Auto tutorial course covers the fundamentals of medical terminology, including recognition and use of common prefixes, roots, and suffixes, as well as single-syllable words. Exercises also include spelling and pronunciation.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-1-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall
EMT-1 is the first in a two-course sequence that prepares students to evaluate and treat medical and traumatic emergencies in pre-hospital and emergency situations. Students learn about human health, pathophysiology, emergency medicine and treatments, and critical thinking to help them assess and treat patients while preparing for the EMT exam.
- Credits: 5.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (4-0-1)
- Semesters Offered: Fall
- Restrictions: Permission of instructor required
This course will provide an understanding of cell structure and function with emphasis on eukaryotic cells. Topics include macromolecules, membranes, organelles, cytoskeleton, division, differentiation, cell-cell interactions, intracellular trafficking, protein sorting, cell signaling, and motility.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 1020 or BL 1040 or (BL 1200 and BL 1210) or (BL 1400 and BL 1410)
Structure, biochemical properties, and function of important biomolecules such as proteins and nucleic acids. Introduces enzyme biochemistry (structure, function, catalysis, kinetics, and inhibition).
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): (BL 1020 or BL 1040 or BE 2400) or (BL 1200 and BL 1210) or (BL 1400 and BL 1410) and (CH 2410 or CH 2420)
A comprehensive investigation of biomolecules including proteins, nucleic acids, and enzymes to understand their roles in structural, metabolic, developmental pathways. This course emphasizes biochemistry as it relates to human development, physiology, and disease.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Biochem & Molec Biology-Bio Sc
- Pre-Requisite(s): (BL 1200 or BL 1400 or BE 2400) and (CH 2410 or CH 2430)
A course for students interested in health careers or human biology. This course will cover advanced topics in the human circulatory, digestive, endocrine, integumentary, lymphatic, muscular, nervous, renal, reproductive, respiratory, and skeletal systems.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, in odd years
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2020
Introduction to the general principles and techniques involved in the study of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Topics include cell structure and function, growth, metabolism, biodiversity, and interaction. Not open to students with credit in BL3310.
- Credits: 4.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 1020 or BL 1040 or (BL 1200 and BL 1210) or (BL 1400 and BL 1410)
Study of pathology, identification, isolation and antimicrobic susceptibility testing of clinically important bacteria.
- Credits: 5.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-5)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 3210
Introduction to Genomics. Genome organization, mapping and characterization from humans and related organisms. Topics include hierarchical arrangement of genes, genome mapping, molecular markers of physical genome maps, genome sequencing, comparative genomics, analysis of important human genes and their products, and ethical and legal aspects of genomics.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2200 or FW 3320
Study of the pattern and processes of organic evolution and their relation to ecological relationships at the organism, population, community, and ecosystem levels.
- Credits: 4.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Fall
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 1010 or BL 1040 or (BL 1100 and BL 1110) or (BL 1400 and BL 1410)
Investigates the immune defense system that has evolved to protect vertebrates from invading pathogens and cancer. Covers general principals of innate and adaptive immunity, HIV, the mucosal immune system, allergies, vaccination, organ transplants, and cancer.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Biological Sciences, Computational Biology, Medical Laboratory Science, Human Biology, Biochem & Molec Biology-Bio Sc, Biochem & Molec Biology-Chem, Biomedical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Chemistry; May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 1020 or BL 1040 or BL 2020 or BE 2400 or (BL 1200 and BL 1210) or (BL 1400 and BL 1410)
Laboratory techniques basic to biochemistry and molecular biology with emphasis on protein isolation, characterization and kinetics.
- Credits: 2.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-1-3)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 3020(C) or CH 4710(C) or BL 3025(C)
Dynamic aspects of living systems. Broad exposure to cellular metabolic pathways, intermediary metabolism and its regulation and bioenergetics.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 3020
Molecular biology of gene structure, expression and regulation. Also topics covering various molecular techniques and applications of these techniques and biotechnology.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman, Sophomore
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 3020 or CH 4710 or BL 3025
An introduction to the fundamentals of epigenetic control that is not encoded by genomic DNA sequences of an organism. Topics include major regulatory mechanisms including DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNA (ncRNA) mediated gene regulation.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: On Demand
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman, Sophomore
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 3300 or BL 4030
Course will cover abnormal function (physiology) and investigate the signs and symptoms of major diseases in humans. Extension of Anatomy & Physiology by working through the systems of the human body. Course will include a clinical focus and case-study approach.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2010 and BL 2020
Introduction to the range of anthropogenic pollutants released into the environment. Concepts of bioaccumulation, biomagnification and environmental persistence, modes of toxicity and detoxification, transport and fate in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Toxic equivalent factors and quotients, regulatory guidelines and practices.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman, Sophomore
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 1020 or (BL 1200 and BL 1210) or BL 1040 or (BL 1400 and BL 1410) and CH 1150 and CH 1160
Structure and function of microorganisms, with emphasis on mechanisms for responding to changing environmental and nutritional conditions.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, in even years
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Level(s): Graduate
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 3210 or BL 3310
Celebration of the commonalities of life as exhibited in the basic building block of organisms - the cell. Course topics include details of basic genetic mechanisms, cell structure and function, and an examination of cells in their social context.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2200 and CH 2420
Using a problem-based learning approach, course examines the physiology of the human body. In-class case-study analyses provide in-depth learning about the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems and their relationship with other organ systems. Promotes development of problem-solving skills.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2020
The course will cover developmental biology topics from gametogenesis over fertilization, embryonic development to postembryonic development, including aging. Developmental genetics and the evolution of development (evo-devo) are an important component of this course.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2200 and (BL 3012(C) or BL 4370(C))
A study of clinical biochemistry of the human body. Theory and practical applications used in routine analysis of body fluids. Includes the study of electrolyte balance, acid base balance, and the functions of major organs and systems.
- Credits: 4.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Clinical Laboratory Science, Medical Laboratory Science, Biological Sciences; May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman, Sophomore
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2020 and BL 3640
Theory and laboratory applications. Emphasis will be placed on hematopoiesis, normal and disease states affecting blood cells and coagulation processes. The lab will focus on cell morphology and practical testing applications.
- Credits: 4.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Fall
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Medical Laboratory Science; May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2410(C) and BL 2020
Theory and practical applications in the blood bank. Emphasis will be placed on blood antigens and antibodies, compatibility testing techniques, blood component therapy and safety issues in the blood bank.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (2-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Fall
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Medical Laboratory Science; May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2410(C)
Emphasis on characteristic genetic, molecular, and cellular changes leading to cancer. Topics will include the role of tumor viruses, oncogenes, tumor suppressors, immortalization, apoptosis, and angiogenesis in cancer initiation and/or progression. Consideration of current therapies and future directions for treatment.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 3012 or BL 4370 or BE 2400
This course describes advanced concepts in molecular diagnostics as applied to the practice of laboratory medicine. Students are introduced to the theory and techniques used in paternity testing, identification of microorganisms, diagnosis of human disease. Basic hands-on laboratory experience in molecular diagnostic techniques.
- Credits: 4.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-2)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2200 and BL 3025
Laboratory techniques in molecular biology, including methods of recombinant DNA technology for identification, cloning, and characterization of genes.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (1-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Fall
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman, Sophomore
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2200 and BL 4030(C)
Focuses on structural and mechanistic approaches to pharmaceuticals and drug action. General principles of absorption, distribution, action, metabolism and toxicity of drugs will be presented followed by action of drug classes such as antibiotics, cardiovascular, and anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): CH 2410 or CH 2430
Focuses on the important concepts in the design and synthesis of drugs. Rational basis for drug design including synthetic, computational and biochemical concepts will be discussed. Topics include structure-activity relationships, synthesis and reaction mechanism, and case studies of drugs.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): CH 2420 or CH 2440
Students will acquire detailed knowledge of joint movements and muscle actions involved in exercise, activities of daily living and workplace tasks. This course delivers necessary theoretical background in functional anatomy, highlighting its close link with biomechanics, thus enhancing understanding of movement processes and injury risk.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (2-0-1)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
Focuses on the functional changes brought by acute and chronic exercise sessions. Topics include muscle structure and function, bioenergetics, cardiovascular and respiratory adaptations, exercise training for sport, sport nutrition, ergogenic aids, and other health and fitness topics.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Co-Requisite(s): KIP 4110
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2020 and BL 2021
Hands-on experience in making physiological measurements as related to exercise. Cardiovascular and respiratory changes during exercise will be monitored. A virtual lab is used to simulate changes in physiological measurements that cannot be performed on live subjects. A student designed laboratory project is required.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Co-Requisite(s): KIP 4100
This course will focus on understanding how the neural and the endocrinal system are regulated under physiological condition and pathophysiological states. The major objective of this course is to prepare students to develop critical thinking and problem solving skills related to the function Neural/Endocrine system.
- Credits: 2.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (2-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2020
Course is designed for students who are going to pursue future career related to cardiac rehabilitation, physical therapy and students in the Pre-Med program. Students will learn cardiac electrophysiology, the pathophysiology, the diagnosis, and treatment of cardiac arrhythmias, and related cardiovascular diseases. Class will build bridge between basic sciences and human health.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman, Sophomore
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2020 and BL 2021
Course will bridge between basic sciences and human health. The course focuses on understanding the fundamental concept of exercise pharmacology and pharmacological treatment of diseases of various systems including cardiovascular, respiratory, endocrine, neuronal, hormonal, and renal systems.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, in odd years
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2020 and BL 2021
An introduction to the principles and methods of epidemiology to understand the distribution and determinants of health in a population. Topics include basic epidemiological statistics, study design, and sources/impact of bias and error.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
Examines the relationship between psychological phenomena and physiological mechanisms, focusing on brain function and nervous system activity. Students will explore psychophysiological measurement methods, current research, and practical applications in understanding human behavior.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): (PSY 2000 or HF 2000) and BL 2010 or (BL 1200 and BL 1210) or (BL 1400 and BL 1410)
Choose 1 of the following courses in evolution
Study of the pattern and processes of organic evolution and their relation to ecological relationships at the organism, population, community, and ecosystem levels.
- Credits: 4.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Fall
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 1010 or BL 1040 or (BL 1100 and BL 1110) or (BL 1400 and BL 1410)
The course will cover developmental biology topics from gametogenesis over fertilization, embryonic development to postembryonic development, including aging. Developmental genetics and the evolution of development (evo-devo) are an important component of this course.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2200 and (BL 3012(C) or BL 4370(C))
A human evolution course focusing upon a summary of general bio -anthropological principles of evolutionary change, the current fossil record evidencing human evolution, and the consequences of human evolutionary change for modern human variability, health, and behavior.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, in odd years
Choose 1 of the following courses in advanced physiology
A course for students interested in health careers or human biology. This course will cover advanced topics in the human circulatory, digestive, endocrine, integumentary, lymphatic, muscular, nervous, renal, reproductive, respiratory, and skeletal systems.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, in odd years
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2020
Course will cover abnormal function (physiology) and investigate the signs and symptoms of major diseases in humans. Extension of Anatomy & Physiology by working through the systems of the human body. Course will include a clinical focus and case-study approach.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2010 and BL 2020
Capstone Requirement
Assessment of experiential learning and preparation for post-graduate work, professional training, or graduate school.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-1-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Senior
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 3782
Experiential Learning Requirement
Choose at least 5 credits from the following options:
EMT-2 is the second in a two-course sequence that prepares students to evaluate and treat medical and traumatic emergencies in pre-hospital and emergency situations. Students build on and apply knowledge learned in EMT-1 in preparation for the national EMT exam.
- Credits: 5.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-2)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 3001
Development of teaching skills through assisting in the instruction of a section of biological sciences laboratory. Students gain experience in leadership, group work, organization skills, laboratory preparation, and laboratory instruction.
- Credits: variable to 4.0; Repeatable to a Max of 9
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: Permission of instructor required
Students conduct empirical, theoretical, or computational research under the direction of a faculty member. The work culminates in a written report, product, or presentation resulting from work performed. Specifics to be agreed upon between faculty mentor and student.
- Credits: variable to 9.0; Repeatable to a Max of 9
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: Permission of instructor required
This course offers training in genome editing design and implementation. Practical demonstrations of genome editing techniques will be included. History and ethics of genome editing will be discussed.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, in odd years
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman, Sophomore
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2200 or FW 3230
This course is an overview of techniques involved in genomics including hands-on experience in next-generation sequencing (NGS) platforms, and NGS sequence analysis including de novo assembly, gene annotation, and analysis including comparative genomics, pathway mapping, and core and pan genome analysis.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, in odd years
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2200
This course is designed as a hands-on experience in eukaryotic genomic experiments involving next generation sequencing (NGS) techniques, including eukaryotic gene annotation, comparative genomics, and gene regulation analyses.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, in even years
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman, Sophomore
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2200 and BL 2210
Students conduct empirical, theoretical, or computational research in biochemistry under the direction of a faculty member. The work culminates in a written report, product, or presentation resulting from the work performed. Specifics to be agreed upon between faculty mentor and student.
- Credits: variable to 6.0; Repeatable to a Max of 9
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: Permission of instructor required
Practical and didactic internship experience directly related to student's course of study in biochemistry and molecular biology, bioinformatics, biological sciences, or ecology. Students conduct work at an approved internship site in addition to academic assignments that encourage them to connect their professional and academic experience.
- Credits: variable to 9.0; Repeatable to a Max of 9
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: Permission of instructor required
Interdisciplinary teams work as part of an enterprise to address real-world design projects or problems. Third-year students will practice designing approaches to solve problems and develop procedures to achieve specified project objectives.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Junior, Senior
Interdisciplinary teams work as part of an enterprise to address real-world design projects or problems. Third-year students practice designing approaches to solve problems and develop procedures to achieve specified project objectives.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-3)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Junior, Senior
Interdisciplinary teams work as part of an enterprise to address real-world projects or problems of significance to industry, government and communities. Fourth-year students gain experience in defining project objectives and planning strategies to achieve these objectives, and leading teams to accomplish project goals. This course is for students who are not participating in Enterprise to fulfill their capstone requirements.
- Credits: 2.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-6)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following College(s): College of Engineering; Must be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Senior
Interdisciplinary teams work as part of an enterprise to address real-world projects or problems of significance to industry, government and communities. Fourth-year students gain experience in defining project objectives and planning strategies to achieve these objectives, and leading teams to accomplish project goals. This course is for students who are not participating in Enterprise to fulfill their capstone requirements.
- Credits: 2.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-6)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following College(s): College of Engineering; Must be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Senior
Free Electives
Choose 7-14 free elective credits. Free electives are any class that is 1000-level or higher, but are not co-curricular courses. Consider choosing these credits carefully to earn a minor!
Essential Education
Students must complete three main components of Essential Education (First-Year Experience,
Distribution or Minor Pathway, and Activities for Well-being and Success). Up to five
Essential Education requirements and the Michigan Tech Seminar may be shared (double
counted) with major requirements. Work with your advisor to determine which major
requirements may satisfy Essential Education requirements. Some courses are on more
than one list, but each course can satisfy only one Essential Education requirement.
Students may choose between an Essential Education minor or the Distribution Pathway.
The list of Essential Education minors can be found here. Lists of courses for each requirement can be found on the Essential Education page.