BI 110

This introductory course presents biology to nonmajors in the context of significant social, political, religious, legal, and ethical issues. The goal is to provide students with a basic understanding of fundamental biological concepts in the context of the contemporary issues facing society today, such as genetic engineering (gene cloning), genetically modified (GM) foods, genetic disorders (sickle cell disease), cancers, infectious diseases (e.g., Influenza, COVID-19), climate change and global warming. Upon successful completion of the course, students should: (1) have an appreciation for the importance of biology in their everyday life; (2) understand general biological concepts associated with different levels of organization from cells to whole organisms; and (3) have an understanding of how science interacts with and shapes public policy and affects society at large. This course fulfills the Natural Science General Education requirement.