Biology

A study of the general principles of biological science. Topics include the scientific method, structure of molecules, the origin of life, biology of the cell, energetics, reproduction and heredity, molecular genetics and evolution. Three lecture hours.

The course seeks to aid the communication process by developing the ability to write clear, concise, expository prose, with emphasis on pre-writing and revision. It assists the student in finding a voice and an audience. A research paper is required, thus techniques of writing a formal research paper are reviewed. (Fall, Spring and Summer Semesters)

A pre-calculus level algebra course. Topics include solving system of equations that contain either two or three variables, adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing monomials and polynomials; factoring polynomials, simplifying rational expressions and solving linear equations and inequity expressions that contain absolute values.

Prerequisite: High school Regents mathematics or placement exam score.

This course is a study of the language of medicine as it relates to all body systems. Emphasis is placed on the understanding of word roots, prefixes, suffixes and abbreviations. Terminology related to anatomy, physiology, laboratory, clinical procedures and pharmacology will be covered. Pronunciation and spelling will be emphasized.

A detailed introduction to the basic principles and theories of chemistry. Topics include: physical measurement, matter, atomic theory, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, gas laws, thermochemistry, quantum theory, periodicity, chemical bonding, molecular geometry and chemical solutions. Three lecture hours.

This course focuses on the structure, molecular biology, and physiology of eukaryotic cells. Students will continuously explore the relationship between structure and function throughout the course. Current literature and the scientific evidence supporting the concepts will be explored.

A course dedicated to the fundamentals of biochemistry with emphasis on physiologic and pathophysiologic biochemical concepts.  This course explores the synthesis, function, and catabolism of the four biological macromolecules. Crucial functions of each of these organic biomolecules will be discussed along with specific pathological conditions that result from abnormal biochemistry.

An introduction to Statistics with modern applications to Sociology, Business, Economics, Ecology, Health Science and Psychology. Topics include: descriptive statistics, central tendency, percentile rank, Z-Scores, probability, probability distribution, correlation and regression analysis. (Fall and Spring Semesters)

The study of scientific principles of Microbiology emphasizing the isolation and identification of pathogenic organisms to man in areas of bacteriology, mycology, virology and parasitology. The culture, morphology, general physiology, immunology and applied aspects of the representative micro-organisms will be studied. Three lecture hours. (Fall, Spring and Summer Semesters)

An introduction to epidemiology, this course covers the principles and methods of epidemiologic investigation including describing the patterns of illness in populations and research designs for investigating the etiology of disease. The course introduces quantitative measures to determine risk, association and procedures for standardization of rates. 

Cross listed with SOC300. Credit will not be granted for both BIO300 and SOC300.

A research-based course in the theory and laboratory techniques of molecular biotechnology with an emphasis on scientific written and oral communication. Applied molecular techniques This course is an introduction to common practices and methodologies of Biotechnology. Students receive hands-on experience using and maintaining laboratory instruments. Laboratory procedures include: solution preparation, aseptic technique, protein separations and assays, DNA electrophoresis, and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Lectures support the laboratory activities.

Health psychology examines how biological, psychological, and social factors interact with and affect the efforts people make in promoting good health and preventing illness.  This course explores how  effectively people cope with and reduce pain and the recovery rehabilitation, and psychological adjustment of patients with serious health problems.  The course also focuses on the role of stress in illness and certain lifestyle factors, such as smoking and weight control, and specific chronic illnesses such as cancer and heart disease.  Students will be provided with training to evaluate the scientific quality of research in the field of health psychology.

This course provides students with an introduction to research methodologies from an interdisciplinary approach. Students will learn how to develop productive research questions while introducing them to the practical and ethical issues involved in a variety of research methodologies. The course also introduces students to useful strategies for searching for and evaluating relevant primary and secondary source materials in the library and online. Students develop a well-informed, rigorous, and realistic interdisciplinary research plan grounded in knowledge from their individual disciples.

This course is an introduction to the field of medical sociology. Its main thrust is on the sociological analysis of health or medical organizations and institutions. Another focus will include an examination of the social disparities in healthcare with respect to epidemiology and social status or age, sex, race, ethnicity, gender, and social class. The role of health professions in the United States will also be explored.

This course provides students with faculty-supervised, independent research experience addressing select topics in the biological sciences.

Senior capstone course. This seminar will include reading, discussion, and analysis of primary literature in diverse areas of biology. The course will allow students from the various tracks within biology to share perspectives and apply their knowledge to the analysis and solution of real-world biological problems. Guest seminars will be given by invited speakers who are prominent local, regional, or national professionals related to the biological sciences. Course topics will vary.