Course Description
Organized around the themes of anatomy and physiology, with the goal of making the content relevant to human health and wellness. It introduces fundamental biological principles to non- science majors through a discussion of organ and organs systems and how they contribute to disease.
Athena Title
Human Biology
Non-Traditional Format
This course will be taught 95% or more online.
Semester Course Offered
Offered every year.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
This course introduces non-science majors to the anatomy and physiology of the human body. Students will study human health and disease through discussions of genetics, evolution, physiology, anatomy, epidemiology, nutrition, and sociocultural influences. Students will demonstrate their understanding of science and human biology through examination of popular science and demonstrate the ability to locate and critically evaluate health-related scientific literature. The organizing themes of anatomy and physiology will be discussed. Throughout this course students will demonstrate their understanding through a critical examination of the facts and principles of organismal biology, relate their insights to their everyday life, and practice their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Topical Outline
Module 1: Bioethics Stem cell research Cardiovascular disease prevention—who pays for an unhealthy lifestyle? Medical marijuana use Should infertility be treated? Module 2: Health Do "natural cures" work? Magic weightloss Cancer prevention: does anything work? Module 3: Nervous system, neurotransmitters and hormones Alzheimer’s disease: can it be prevented or treated? What causes drug addiction? Your brain on alcohol Environmental hormones and reproduction
Syllabus