Biology

Session I  (June 3 - June 28)

BISC 103 - Human Biology

Sally Sommers Smith, Lecturer in Biological Sciences

The anatomy and physiology of human tissues, organs, and organ systems will be the focus of this course, intended for students seeking to fulfill natural/physical science requirements. The course will be structured around four week-long units. Each unit will consist of four lecture/discussions and one computer laboratory module (Weblab). Weblabs will consist of medical case studies focused on the lecture and discussion material for that week.

Prerequisite: None. Not open to students who have taken BISC 109.

Meeting times: M - F (9-11am)

Location: SCI 155

Credit: 1.0 unit (4 sem. hrs.)

Tuition: $2,300

Registration Fee: $50 (non-refundable)

BISC 104 - Science or Science Fiction?

Martina Koniger, Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences

This course will examine the scientific facts behind phenomena portrayed in a variety of Hollywood and foreign movies. We will cover topics ranging from the definition and recreation of life, genetics and behavior to evolution and environmental issues. The course will include weekly screenings of movies outside of class time as well as lectures, assigned readings and discussions. While obtaining an introduction to key concepts in biology, students will also explore misconceptions about science and scientists that are perpetuated by these movies.

Prerequisite: Fulfillment of the basic skills component of the Quantitative Reasoning requirement.

Meeting times: M, W, F 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Location: SCI 268

Credit: 1.0 unit (4 sem. hrs.)

Tuition: $2,300

Registration Fee: $50 (non-refundable)

Session II  (July 1 - July 26)

BISC 107 - Biotechnology

Martina Koniger, Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences

This course focuses on applications of recently developed biological techniques, including recombinant DNA, antibody techniques and reproductive technology. We will discuss topics ranging from forensics, to GMOs, genetic testing, gene therapy, and designer babies. The social and ethical issues surrounding these techniques are also discussed. No prior knowledge of biology is expected, as all necessary background information will be discussed.

Prerequisite: Fulfillment of the basic skills component of the Quantitative Reasoning requirement.

Meeting times: M, W, F 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Location: SCI 274

Credit: 1.0 unit (4 sem. hrs.)

Tuition: $2,300

Registration Fee: $50 (non-refundable)

BISC 320 - Methods in Proteomics w/ LAB

Gary Harris, Professor of Biological Sciences

The discipline of proteomics deals with virtually all aspects of the complex protein population of a living cell.  This course will introduce you to some of the experimental approaches and methods researchers use to gain insights into this complex world.  One of the most important of these methods, viewed by many as the core technology of most proteomic studies, is mass spectrometry. Modern mass spectrometers can be utilized to identify and characterize individual proteins, and members of protein complexes.  As a student in this course you will have hands on experience in methods of organelle isolation, one-dimensional and two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (2D PAGE), affinity chromatography and the operation of a tandem mass spectrometer and its associated software package.  The lecture portion of this course will focus on the primary literature, primarily dealing with the question of how proteomics is contributing to our understanding of, and the treatment of, various diseases.  This course will include a component of laboratory based independent research and a final paper in the form of a grant proposal.

Prerequisite: 219, 220 and CHEM 211, or by permission of the instructor

Meeting times:

Lecture:  M,W,F  9:00-11:30am  in SCI 155

Lab: T,W,Th.  12:30- 4:00pm   in SCI 304

Credit: 1.25 unit (5 sem. hrs.)

Tuition: $2,875

Registration Fee: $50 (non-refundable)