MOLECULAR BIOLOGY (BIOL 351) - This course covers topics that include DNA replication, transcription, translation, regulation of gene expression, molecular evolution and recombinant DNA technology. Interspersed laboratory sessions include isolation and characterization of DNA and RNA, cDNA cloning, gene expression and bioinformatics. Understanding the structure and techniques to manipulate DNA is critical to all genetic engineering initiatives.
BIOTECHNOLOGY (BIOL 360) - Biotechnological advances are revolutionizing our lives but, as with most scientific breakthroughs, controversy about their application soon follows. Mechanistic details that underpin several biotech techniques such as cloning, gene splicing, gene knockout, the creation of transgenic organisms and stem cell manipulation are presented. The course will also consider, in reasonable depth, critical ethical and moral implications of these approaches that have the ability to anatomically or genetically modify an organism. This course is Writing Intensive designed to train students in comprehending scientific terms and rigorous writing in the sciences.
MEDICAL AND MOLECULAR VIROLOGY (BIOL 440) - This course examines the structure and property of viruses, viral replication, immune responses to viral infections, and antiviral drugs and vaccines. Special attention is given to medically important viruses, such as smallpox, influenza, HIV and AIDS, HPV, and measles. Students will also conduct medical case history conferences on Influenza, Hepatitis, HIV and COVID-19.
>>For all course descriptions for this major, SEE SCHOOL OF UNDERGRADUATE STUDIES CATALOG
Requirements/Prerequisites:
No requirements for admission into the Molecular Biology majors. Majors must maintain a C- average during undergraduate course of study and receive a C- in all major-required and also-required courses in the natural sciences
