Foundation Courses
In the first two years, you'll take foundational courses in general biology, chemistry, physiology, cell and molecular biology, ecology and evolution, and biostatistics. Courses in psychology, sociology, public health and healthcare ethics are also required. You'll also enroll in professional development to help identify and guide your future career path.
Areas of Emphasis (AoE)
Biology: Pre-Medical majors must select an AoE, typically following of the foundational coursework. You can choose from:
- Human Health: Coursework covers advanced cellular and molecular foundations, biochemistry, anatomy and physiology, infectious disease or pathogens, and communications. This area of emphasis is ideal preparation for medical, dental or physician's assistant school.
- Global Health: Designed under the “one health” concept — which focuses on one ecosystem — this AoE is comprised of coursework in the evolution of infectious disease, advanced cellular and molecular biology, organismal health, ecosystem health and computation skills, such as bioinformatics. The Global Health AoE is well positioned for careers in infectious diseases, computation biology, genomics and more.
Each area allows flexibility and choices of electives. Further, lab coursework provides hands-on experience that is a critical component for both Human Health and Global Health areas of emphasis.
Tailor this major to your interests by taking one of these courses as you pursue your degree:
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BIOL 310:
Advanced Cellular/Molecular Biology
Advanced study of molecular mechanisms underlying fundamental cellular processes.
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BIOL 315:
Communicating Natural Science
Teaches students to effectively communicate about scientific discoveries and scientific issues in both written and oral forms to professional scientists, the public, the media and politicians. Students will learn to consider the knowledge, biases and goals of their intended audience to communicate thoughtfully and effectively.
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BIOL 316:
Developmental Biology
A molecular genetic analysis of the mechanisms by which multicellular organisms develop from single cells.
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BIOL 324:
Molecular Genetics
Theoretical and practical knowledge in genetics as a field of study and as an approach for investigating biological problems.
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BIOL 345:
Human Anatomy
Study of human morphology, with a focus on anatomical function and medical applications. Lecture integrates integument, skeletal, muscular, cardiovascular, digestive, urogenital, respiratory, and nervous system anatomy. The co-requisite lab parallels these lecture topics. This course is intended for students interested in the human health fields.
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BIOL 365:
Conservation Biology
Review of literature, research, and application of topics including biodiversity, endangered species, population biology, extinction, invasive species, conservation, restoration, and sustainability.
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BIOL 455:
Evolution of Infectious Diseases
The application of phylogenetics, microbiology, immunology, and epidemiology towards understanding the evolution of infectious diseases. Students will develop a fundamental understanding of the significance of evolution and ecology in infectious disease emergence and control.
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PHIL 331:
Health Care Ethics
Topics: Clinician- patient relationship, life-sustaining treatment, physician assisted death, physician-nurse conflicts, confidentiality, research, reproductive technology, abortion, maternal/fetal conflicts, genetics, rationing, and access.
Tailor this major to your interests by focusing your coursework in one of these areas:
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Global Health
- Evolution of Infection Disease
- Cellular and Molecular
- Organismal Health
- Ecosystem Health
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Human Health
- Cellular and Molecular Foundations
- Biochemistry
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Infectious Disease/Pathogens
- Communication Skills
Take advantage of special options related to this major:
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Honors
Expand your curiosity — and enhance your curriculum — through the Â鶹Porn Honors College. Two programs are offered: for first-
and second-year students and for third- and fourth-year students.