Biological and Health Sciences

AHS 101. Wellness. (2 Credits)

Students will be guided in a critical reflection of their health and wellness within the context of a Christian worldview. Special emphasis will be given to the development and maintenance of lifestyle habits that optimize well being.

General Education: COMP

AHS 273. Behavioral Medicine. (2 Credits)

This course examines influences on health behavior, from the individual level to family, community, societal, and structural level factors. Students will gain in-depth understanding of key concepts related to the behavioral, social, cultural, and spiritual context of health behaviors and how this context applies to specific health issues and behaviors. Students will gain conceptual tools to understand and analyze health behaviors within this context, including tools from medical anthropology, psychology, and health behavior change and communication. This is a reading-intensive seminar which emphasizes critical thinking, discussion, and application of concepts to real-world challenges.

AHS 281. Biostatistics. (4 Credits)

The purpose of this course is to train students to become intimately familiar with the basics of research design and statistical modeling techniques commonly used in the health sciences. Knowledge will be gained as students learn how to go from hypothesis generation, to appropriate research design, to the implementation of a statistical model, to the interpretation of results.

Tags: AAQR

AHS 311. Introduction to Public Health. (4 Credits)

This course provides an introduction to the field of public health, focused on case studies of contemporary public health issues in the U.S. and globally. Students will be exposed to public health in historical perspective and to current career paths in the field, will gain an understanding of public health theory and public health's mandate to prevent disease in populations, and will learn to critically analyze health issues from a public health and interdisciplinary perspective. Emphasis will be given to social, cultural, and structural determinants of health, to health promotion and disease prevention interventions, and to the relationship of public health to God's promise of shalom.

AHS 351. Human Anatomy. (4 Credits)

This course covers the basic concepts of human anatomy, with emphasis on both the gross and cellular characteristics of each system. It includes discussion on how structure affects function while examining different clinical scenarios. Laboratory sessions will include human cadaver and specimen dissection, along with histological slides to reinforce concepts discussed in lectures. This course is intended to serve students interested in the health professions. Lab fee. Prerequisite: BIOL 241 and Sophomore or higher standing or department permission.

AHS 361. Integrative Human Physiology. (4 Credits)

This course presents the integrative physiology of the respiratory, cardiovascular, muscular, nervous, renal, digestive, endocrine, immune, and reproductive systems. Cellular and metabolic regulation will be integrated into organ/systems regulation. Normal and disease conditions (e.g., heart disease, diabetes) will be used as illustrations. The information in this course will be integrated into specific upper division courses and is directly applicable to those in the health sciences. Pre or Corequisite: CHEM 231 or CHEM 232; Prerequisites: BIOL 241 and AHS 351 or department permission. Lab fee.

AHS 362. Orthopedic & Athletic Injury. (2 Credits)

A study of the mechanism, treatment, rehabilitation, and prevention of musculoskeletal injury. The course begins with the study of the injury process from a physiological and biomechanical perspective. The course then progresses into the study of specific injuries to the various areas of the body. The course concludes with the study of various treatment modalities utilized in the health care arena. Departmental adjunct faculty and health professionals from the community serve to expand the course content within their area of expertise. Prerequisites or corequisites: AHS 351, AHS 361 or department permission. $10 course fee.

AHS 368. Concepts in Nutrition. (4 Credits)

This course includes the theory and techniques of nutrition, dieting, and proper weight control. Digestion and absorption will be presented at the biochemical and applied physiological levels. Experimentally based research projects and case studies will be accomplished in small groups. Prerequisite: AHS 351, or department permission. Pre or Corequisite: AHS 361.

AHS 371. Clinical Kinesiology. (4 Credits)

This course will study the biomechanical forces involved in human movement. Applications will include the study of normal human movement, abnormal/pathological movement (e.g. abnormal gait analysis, rehabilitation aspects of movement), as well as sport and exercise biomechanics. Attention will be given to both the quantitative and qualitative analysis of movement. Prerequisite: AHS 351, AHS 361. Additional course fee required: $25.

AHS 381. Concepts in Epidemiology. (4 Credits)

An introductory course of the basic science of disease prevention. Overview of epidemiologic methods and research designs to explore the variation of disease occurrence among individuals and populations and how that variation is studied to understand the causes of disease. Discussion of the biologic, behavioral, social and environmental determinants of health and disease. Description of how epidemiologic findings are applied to health maintenance and disease prevention.

AHS 391. Community-Based Research in Urban Public Health. (4 Credits)

Theory and practice of public health program planning and evaluation in partnership with community public health organizations in urban Chicago. Students will integrate principles of community building and organizing to address community-identified health issues in the context of social change. Emphasis will be placed upon the development of faith-based cultural humility for the recognition and empowerment of existing healthy community assets for the improvement of urban health and quality of life. Quantitative and qualitative research methods will be utilized and integrated throughout all phases of health planning and program evaluation. $50 course fee. Prerequisite: AHS 381.

AHS 392. Public Health Research Theory and Methods. (4 Credits)

This course is designed to introduce students to the perspectives, methods, and techniques of qualitative and quantitative public health research. Students will gain an understanding of the theoretical foundations of human subjects research, methods of data collection and analysis, research ethics and ethics board approval, study design and participant recruitment, and presentation of research findings. Each student will engage in a research project (writing a research proposal, collecting data, and/or analyzing data), with the goal of applying course content and developing practical skills in either qualitative or quantitative research methods. Pre or Corequisite: AHS 281 and AHS 381.

AHS 451. Advanced Human Anatomy. (2 Credits)

This course covers advanced concepts of human cadaver anatomy. A thorough general dissection of the entire body with various in-depth dissections throughout the course will be the focus. This course is intended to serve students interested in the health professions. Prerequisite: AHS 351.

AHS 452. Applied Physiology. (4 Credits)

This course will present the applied physiology of the following conditions: heart disease, obesity, type-2 diabetes mellitus, lower limb amputations, pregnancy, and aging and the role of prescribed exercise in the management and rehabilitation of these conditions. The physiological and biochemical adjustments and adaptations to acute and chronic exercise will be presented. Experimentally based research projects will be accomplished in small groups. Prerequisite: AHS 361 or department permission.

AHS 461. Advanced Anatomy II. (2 Credits)

Advanced subject material in human anatomy cadaver dissection. Dissections will be completely difference than those covered in AHS 451. Examples include the spinal cord with brachial and sacral plexus, intricacies of the hand, foot, shoulder or knee, nerves of the abdominal pelvic cavity. Prerequisite: AHS 351.

AHS 494. Integrative Seminar. (2 Credits)

This course is designed to provide an integrative conclusion to the major by reflecting on how a Christian liberal arts education has shaped students' knowledge and character, to connect the discipline of Applied Health Science within the broader context of liberal arts and the Christian faith, and to clarify/reaffirm vocational calling.

General Education: SHAR

AHS 495. Problems in Applied Health Science. (1 to 4 Credits)

Special projects and independent research study. These projects must offer a unique learning experience for the student and will usually be an experimentally based research project with the purpose of developing critical thinking and with the intent of being published.

AHS 496. Internship. (4 to 8 Credits)

Practical experience under supervision in an approved program. Prerequisite: junior or senior standing as Applied Health Science major.

BIOL 201. Contemporary Topics in Life Science. (4 Credits)

This course provides students with a study of concepts generally applicable to living systems, including cell structure and function, genetics, heredity, evolution, systems of the human body, and a survey of living organisms. The course is organized around recent advances in science and presents culturally relevant issues and topics for consideration and discussion. Students will be exposed to scientific vocabulary and principles while also examining the history and culture surrounding specific and recent scientific discoveries. Focus will be placed on drawing students into application and integration of science and developing the ability to engage with scientific topics in the popular culture. Three lectures and three hours laboratory. This is a course for non-science majors. Additional course fee required: $85.

Tags: SIP, SP

BIOL 241. Organization of Life: Genetics and Cell Biology. (4 Credits)

This course is a study of the basic organizational structure of living organisms, beginning with the chemical basis of life and its relationship to the higher levels of cellular organization. This course includes a systematic analysis of the roles of nucleic acids, proteins and lipids in the higher levels of biological organization. The mediation of life processes by gene expression, cell metabolism and signal transduction are considered in the context of prokaryotic populations and more complex multicellular organisms. Three lectures, three hours laboratory. Offered every Fall.

Tags: SP

BIOL 242. Diversity of Life: An Introduction to Zoology and Botany. (4 Credits)

This course introduces the biology and diversity of select groups of prokaryotes, fungi, protists, plants and animals. Topics include taxonomic diversity, structure, and introductory physiology at the organ and tissue level. An introduction to plant biology studies the structure, function, and development of plants as organisms and the diversity of algae, fungi, and plants. Three lectures, three hours laboratory. Offered every Spring (main campus) and every Summer (Wheaton College Science Station in South Dakota).

BIOL 243. Processes of Life: Ecology and Evolution. (4 Credits)

This course introduces the conceptual and theoretical foundations of ecology, animal behavior, and evolution. Students will be introduced to population and ecosystem processes as well as longer term processes of change, including evolution. Evaluation of theories of species dynamics will be viewed in a Christian perspective. Three lectures, three hours laboratory. Offered every Fall (main campus) and every Summer (Wheaton College Science Station in South Dakota). Prerequisite: BIOL 241 or BIOL 242.

BIOL 252. Modeling the Systems of Life. (4 Credits)

Combines seminar and investigative laboratory approaches to focus on the processes of science. Organisms useful for investigation of specific biological questions will be utilized to illustrate the concept of model systems. The course will include reading and discussing primary literature and reviews, and designing and conducting experiments. Two lectures, six hours laboratory. Offered every Fall and every Spring. Prerequisites: BIOL 241 and 242.

BIOL 304. Bioethics. (4 Credits)

See PHIL 304.

Tags: PI, SIP

BIOL 305. Environmental Ethics. (4 Credits)

An interdisciplinary consideration of environmental issues, exploring scientific understanding of these issues and the philosophical foundations and application of ethics to result in environmental stewardship in terms of personal and corporate responsibility. Completing a Scientific Practice (SP) course is strongly recommended.

Tags: PI, SIP

BIOL 311. Reproductive Biotechnology. (4 Credits)

This course provides an overview of various biomedical techniques that relate directly to the beginnings of human life and/or to reproductive choices or decisions. The techniques considered include various methods of birth control, different forms of assisted reproduction techniques, genetic testing, genetic engineering, and stem cell research and therapy. The course covers the basic biology of these techniques and also considers them from social, theological and ethical perspectives. May not be applied towards the Biology major. Course is offered occasionally. Prerequisite: one Scientific Practice (SP) course.

Tags: SIP

BIOL 312. Contemporary Environmental Issues. (4 Credits)

An exploration of environmental issues considering the scientific details of environmental processes and problems, the social context of people depending on the environment and human responsibility to live sustainably and care for creation. May not be applied towards the Biology major. Course is offered occasionally. Prerequisite: one SP course.

Tags: SIP

BIOL 318. Global Health. (4 Credits)

An interdisciplinary approach to understanding the global patterns of health and disease. Students in this course will describe and analyze how ecology, social class, race and gender impact the global burden of disease. Students will also consider how our Christian call to love our neighbor impacts our response to the disparities seen in the global burden of disease. It is strongly recommended to take a Scientific Practice (SP) course first.

Tags: GP, SIP

BIOL 319. Introduction to Environmental Ethics. (2 Credits)

An interdisciplinary consideration of ethical issues in the environmental sciences. May be applied toward the legacy general education nature requirement and the Biology major. Prerequisites: one legacy general education science laboratory course. Counts as upper division science requirement under legacy general education only. Course is offered occasionally.

BIOL 322. Advanced Cellular and Developmental Biology. (4 Credits)

An overview of cell structure and function and the mechanisms of biological development. Topics include cellular membranes, signal transduction, the cell surface and extracellular matrix, organelles, the cytoskeleton, the cell cycle and cancer, and cellular differentiation. Understanding of these concepts will provide the basis of study of the development of form and function during embryogenesis. Consideration of the mechanisms of development will include the basic morphological and biochemical changes which occur, as well as the molecular and cellular interactions leading to these changes. Three lectures, three hours laboratory. Lab fee $85. Prerequisites: BIOL 241 and BIOL 242.

BIOL 323. Introduction to Pharmacology. (4 Credits)

A study of chemicals that affect human physiological systems and the mechanisms by which these chemicals alter cellular and molecular pathways. Class sessions will include lectures, discussion, and student presentations. Course is offered occasionally. Prerequisites: BIOL 241 and CHEM 232.

BIOL 324. Microbiology. (4 Credits)

The study of the biology of microorganisms will emphasize aspects unique to bacteria and archaea, and a brief overview of viruses. Topics include microbial cell structure, metabolism, physiology, genetics, taxonomy, ecology and evolution. Laboratory exercises include techniques for detecting, isolating, cultivating, quantifying, and identifying bacteria. Three lectures, three hours laboratory. Lab fee $85. Prerequisites: BIOL 241, CHEM 232, and CHEM 241 or CHEM 342.

BIOL 325. Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis. (4 Credits)

This course is a study of the molecular and cellular interactions and principles of the vertebrate immune system. Topics include immune system development, humoral and cell-mediated immunity, and the immune system in health and diseases. In addition, immunization, immunodeficiency, autoimmunity and cancer immunology will be discussed. The application of immunology techniques in both basic research and clinical settings will be explored. The immune response to microbial pathogens (bacteria, viruses, parasites) will be integrated through both lecture and primary literature discussion. Class periods will involve lectures and discussion. Prerequisite: BIOL 241.

BIOL 331. Human Anatomy and Physiology I. (4 Credits)

Examination of human musculoskeletal, nervous, endocrine, and cardiovascular systems with an emphasis on their structure, function, and integration. Three lectures, three hours laboratory. Lab fee $85. Prerequisites: BIOL 241 and 242; CHEM 232.

BIOL 332. Human Anatomy & Physiology II. (4 Credits)

Continuation of BIOL 331. Structure, function, and integration of structure and function within the human lymphatic, immune, respiratory, digestive, renal, and reproductive systems. Integration of systems is emphasized. Three lectures, three hours laboratory. Lab fee $85. Prerequisite: BIOL 331.

BIOL 334. Parasitology. (2 Credits)

Includes classification and identification of major groups of endo- and ecto-parasites. Lifecycles and ecology of parasite transmission will be emphasized. Three lectures. Prerequisite: BIOL 242.

BIOL 335. Invertebrate Zoology. (4 Credits)

A study of the systematics, functional morphology, ecology and research with non-vertebrate organisms. Students are introduced to the amazing diversity of terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates. Field trips to local habitats in addition to the Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium are included. The purpose of this course is to introduce students to often overlooked organisms in the animal kingdom with the goal of cultivating a greater appreciation for this wonderful part of God's creation. Three lectures and three hours laboratory. Lab fee $85. Prerequisite: BIOL 242.

BIOL 336. Neurobiology. (4 Credits)

A neuroscience course with three major units: the basics of neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, neuroimaging, and the stress response; several key cellular and systems-level circuits within the brain that regulate metabolism, immunity, pain, memory, sleep, and interoception; and behaviors (nutrition, exercise, meditation and prayer) that promote brain health. Class sessions will include lectures, discussions, and student presentations of current research. Prerequisite: BIOL 241 and BIOL 242.

BIOL 338. Economic Botany. (4 Credits)

Principles of plant biology (plant anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, genetics, taxonomy, and ecology) that relate to uses of plants for food, fodder, drugs and other chemicals, lumber, and other uses. Lab fee $85. Three lectures, three hours laboratory. Prerequisites: BIOL 241 and 242.

BIOL 339. Plant Physiology. (4 Credits)

Basic principles of plant physiology including photosynthesis, mineral nutrition, water economy, respiration, nitrogen and lipid metabolism, development, growth, and plant growth substances. Three lectures, three hours laboratory. Lab fee $85. Prerequisites: BIOL 241 and 242 and CHEM 232.

BIOL 342. Introduction to Bioinformatics. (2 Credits)

This course introduces students to bioinformatics tools and analysis methods. Upon completion of the course, students should be more comfortable working with the vast amounts of biomedical and genomic data and online tools that will be relevant to their work in the coming decades. Methods for sequencing DNA and the analysis and comparison of genome data, methods for examining the transcriptomic and proteomic profiles, as well as phylogeny, will be discussed. Implications of various types of bioinformatics data for markers of disease, genetic mechanisms, biosystematics, biodiversity, and ethics of biotechnology will be considered. Prerequisite: BIOL 241.

BIOL 343. Plant Taxonomy. (4 Credits)

Includes systems of classification, distinguishing characteristics of groups, observation, and classification of vascular plants of the Black Hills and environs. Offered during the summer at the Wheaton College Science Station in South Dakota. Course is offered occasionally. Prerequisite: BIOL 242.

BIOL 345. Disease Ecology. (4 Credits)

An interdisciplinary approach to understanding the global ecological patterns and dynamics of disease. Students in this course will describe and analyze how ecology, social class, race, and gender impact the global burden of disease. Students will also consider how our Christian call to love our neighbor impacts our response to the disparities seen in the global burden of ecological stewardship and disease presence and transmission. Prerequisites: BIOL 241 or 242, and BIOL 243.

BIOL 347. Evolutionary Biology. (4 Credits)

This course will consider the basic principles, mechanisms, and patterns of evolutionary biology including a historical survey of related ideas. The course will also consider the historical and current relationship between evolutionary science and Christian faith. Prerequisites: BIOL 241, 242, and BIOL 243.

BIOL 348. Marine Biology. (4 Credits)

Study of the biology of marine organisms in the context of the geological and physical features of the ocean. Lectures, field trips, and learning snorkeling skills on campus are followed by a field trip to the Caribbean over spring break to apply these concepts to tropical marine environments. Additional fee assessed to cover travel and accommodation costs. Course is offered occasionally. Prerequisite: BIOL 242.

BIOL 349. Animal Behavior. (4 Credits)

This course is designed to help students gain a deeper understanding of the nature of animal behavior, spanning the animal kingdom from invertebrates to vertebrates: from bees to grasshoppers to fish to birds to primates. A comparative and integrative overview of how and why animals as diverse as insects and humans behave the way that they do, linking behaviors to the brain, genes, and hormones, as well as to the surrounding ecological and social environments. Three hours of lecture and three hours of lab will be offered. Prerequisite: BIOL 241. Additional course fee required: $85.

BIOL 356. Genetics. (4 Credits)

Molecular, cytogenetic, classical, and population concepts of plant, animal, and human genetics. Three lectures, three hours laboratory. Lab fee $85. Prerequisites: BIOL 241, 242, and 252. Offered every Spring.

BIOL 372. Field Zoology. (3 Credits)

A course emphasizing observation and classification of Black Hills animals, with a concentration on insects, reptiles, birds, and mammals. Offered during the summer at the Wheaton College Science Station in South Dakota. Course is offered occasionally. Prerequisite: BIOL 242.

BIOL 382. Field Natural History. (4 Credits)

Introduction to basic field and lab methods used in field natural history. Includes the basic nomenclature of flora and fauna in terrestrial, as well as aquatic systems. Basic geologic processes are discussed, and the major rock formations of the Black Hills are identified in the field. The course also provides an overview of the history and philosophy of natural history. Offered during the summer at the Wheaton College Science Station in South Dakota.

BIOL 385. Special Topics In Biology. (2 Credits)

Seminars or courses in special areas offered at discretion of the department.

BIOL 386. Special Topics in Biology. (4 Credits)

Seminars or courses in special areas offered at discretion of the department.

BIOL 461. General Biochemistry. (4 Credits)

The chemical reaction mechanisms of life processes. The structure and function of biomolecules. Protein purification and characterization. Enzyme kinetics. Bioenergetics and the role of metabolic interconversions in energy production. Membrane transport, regulation, and compartmentation. Prerequisites: CHEM 342 or 241.

BIOL 494. The Integrated Biologist. (2 Credits)

A senior capstone experience in which Christian perspective and biological understanding are integrated to explore and better understand science, origins, environment, medicine, and ethical obligations. Prerequisite: senior standing, for Biology majors only. Offered every Fall and every Spring. (lin)

General Education: SHAR

BIOL 495. Biological Research. (2 or 4 Credits)

Laboratory and/or library research conducted with a Wheaton College Biology faculty member or with a biologist at another institution (if pre-approved by the Biology Department). Through laboratory research, students hone skills in using proper lab technique, keeping a laboratory notebook, critical thinking and problem solving, and presenting their findings in oral and/or written format. In library research, students identify and obtain pertinent articles; read, analyze, and critique the articles; and synthesize information presented in the articles. Students must prepare a short research proposal in collaboration with the participating faculty member as a prerequisite for enrolling in the course. Lab fee $100. Prerequisites: BIOL 241 and BIOL 242.

BIOL 496. Biology Internship. (2 or 4 Credits)

Students gain practical experience during a summer or semester in a biologically-related field. Student work is monitored and assessed by an on-site supervisor and a Biology faculty member. Prerequisites: Biology major with at least junior standing and pre-approval by the Biology Department Chair.

BIOL 497. Biology Research Seminar. (1 Credit)

A weekly seminar featuring presentations and discussions of current research in biology. Most seminars are presented by biologists from other institutions. In the student journal club sessions, students collaborate with faculty in the presentation of recently published articles. Graded Pass/Fail. May be taken up to twice for credit. Can be counted as credit toward the Biology major and is not included in the calculation of the limit of three non-lab courses that can be counted toward the Biology major. One hour per week. Prerequisites: Sophomore or higher standing, Consult current year’s course offerings.

BIOL 499. Biology Honors Research and Seminar. (2 Credits)

Laboratory research conducted with a Biology faculty member, and a weekly seminar involving the critique of primary literature and listening to scientific research presentations. Prerequisite: Acceptance to the Biology Honors' Program. (lin)