SC 265T - Biology: Today and Tomorrow

(3 units)

This is an introductory course in which students examine the dual nature of the biological world. Students will explore both the unifying principles that underlie all life on Earth and the enormous diversity of biological structures produced as a consequence of evolution. The course introduces students to fundamental concepts concerning the molecular basis of life, cell structure and energetics, the genetic transmission of information, natural selection and adaptation, population biology, and ecology. This introduction allows students to consider interesting questions such as: What does it mean to be alive? How are humans and bacteria similar? Why is it possible for us to even exist? Why do we develop diseases? Are humans evolving? Why do we care if other species survive? The course provides students with the basic understanding of biological principles necessary to allow them to see their world in a new way, making connections between aspects of their own lives and the biological basis of life.