Biology

This course presents information on nutrients and their use by the body. Topics include digestion, nutrient intake and usage, consequences of nutrient deficiencies or excesses, energy exchanges and production, analysis of individual diets, food-borne illnesses and nutritional misinformation. This course does not have a lab component.

This is an introductory course of human anatomy and physiology. The course starts with anatomical terms and basic cellular biology and then emphasizes the structure and function of several organ systems. The laboratory portion of the course involves the examination of slides, bones, models, and the dissection of a rat. (This course does not meet the Nursing and Dental Hygiene program requirements for Anatomy and Physiology.) (3 class hours/2 laboratory hours)

This is a survey course of biology, the study of life, in one semester. It is designed to conceptually and experimentally explore the processes that sustain life. Major topics include cell biology, adaptation and evolution, genetics and reproduction, ecology and diversity, taxonomy and classification. The course is not intended for science majors.

This course provides an in-depth introduction to plant classification, anatomy, physiology, nutrition and reproduction. Chemical and physical properties of soil as well as the relationship between soils and plant growth are emphasized. (3 class hours/2 laboratory hours)

A survey of the common insect pests and pathogens of ornamental plants, including a review of the basic principles of entomology and plant pathology. Topics include biological diversity, taxonomy, morphology, physiology, ecology, behavior, insect/human relationships, pesticides, biological control, and the causes, nature and control of plant pathogens. A 'least is best' philosophy is emphasized, regarding use of pesticides in controlling the various competition for plant health. Integrated plant management is the basis for control strategy.

Microbes constitute the majority of organisms in nature, and associate and interact with other living organisms in unexpected and interesting ways. This course examines the different groups of microbes with respect to their structure, physiology, and behavior. Microbes used in the industrial, pharmaceutical, food processing, and agricultural applications will be introduced. The laboratory component introduces basic skills of viewing, handling, growing, and identifying microorganisms.

This first course in a two-semester sequence in introductory biology for science majors or science-interested students is designed to acquaint the student with foundational principles of biology with an emphasis on cellular structure and function. Topics covered will include the basic chemical properties of living things, cellular metabolism, molecular genetics, gene expression and Mendelian genetics. The laboratory features activities and experiments that reinforce the concepts presented in lecture. (3 class hours/3 laboratory hours)

The second in a two-semester sequence in introductory biology for science majors or science-interested students. It is designed to acquaint the student with the evolution and diversity of life as well as general ecological principles. Prokaryotes, unicellular eukaryotes, plants, fungi and animals are studied. The laboratory features activities and experiments that reinforce the concepts presented in lecture. Microscopy, dissection, and some field work provide the basis for learning. (3 class hours/3 laboratory hours)

This course provides an introduction to the public health. Its biomedical basis, including infectious and non-infectious diseases, environmental pollutants, and related factors are discussed. Other topics covered include social, behavioral, and environmental factors that affect public health, Federal, state and international health agencies. Epidemiological principles, surveillance and regulation are addressed with analysis of case studies. Emerging diseases, biotechnology, and new investigative tools are also introduced.

The lecture portion of this course provides an introduction to the fundamentals of ecology including the interactions of populations, communities, and ecosystems. Students will be introduced to the techniques of ecological data gathering and analysis. The laboratory exposes students to the field techniques used in investigating different ecological communities, specifically of Cape Cod, and emphasizes team-based research. One Saturday field trip is required for the laboratory component. (3 class hours/3 laboratory hours per week)

This is an introduction to the biology of birds and their behavior. Special emphasis is given to species of the United States and Massachusetts. A wide range of topics is presented, including field identification by sight and sound; taxonomy; breeding biology; foraging ecology; feather structure; flight; migration and orientation; anatomy and physiology. (3 class hours/3 laboratory hours per week).

This course provides an introduction to cell structure, function, and physiology. Topics include the function of cellular organelles, enzymes and their role in metabolism and regulation, synthesis of macromolecules, and gene expression and regulation.

A comprehensive systematic study of the human body emphasizing the structure and function of the systems. Topics covered include: a review of biochemistry and cellular structure and function, tissue types, the integumentary, skeletal muscular, and nervous systems (neurophysiology, CNS, PNS, and Special Senses) with correlated hands-on laboratory work. (3 class hours/2 laboratory hours).

A continuation of the comprehensive systematic study of the human body emphasizing the structure and function of the systems. Topics covered include: autonomic nervous system, reproductive, endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, and urinary systems. Lecture topics are correlated with hands-on laboratory work (3 class hours/2 laboratory hours).

An introduction to microorganisms and their activities, for health-related majors. The topics cover cell structure, classification, metabolism, methods of control, antimicrobial drugs, genetics, microbial and host defenses, immunology and applications, representative infectious diseases, and food and industrial microbiology. Independent study is encouraged. The laboratory component introduces basic procedures of handling, growing, and identifying microorganisms. (3 class hours/2 laboratory hours per week)