A study of the normal microscopic anatomy of the various tissues and organs of the body with an emphasis on the relationship between structure and function. Special attention is given to the field of human histology with some discussion of the similarities and differences in animals. The laboratory component of the course involves the observation and discussion of representative tissue sections and provides a basic understanding of normal versus abnormal morphology.

This course studies animal development and its underlying causal principles including introductory reproductive biology, embryology, and developmental genetics.

A lecture course covering current topics in immunology, including: the cellular basis of immunity, the molecular genetics of antibody diversity, the major histocompatibility complex, antigen recognition, lymphocyte development, the complement system, hypersensitivity reactions, and immunodeficiency diseases. The course provides an integrated view of the immune system and the immunologic response to disease.

An advanced study of topics in basic and applied microbiology. Topics include: (i) the structure, ultrastructure, and biochemical structure of prokaryotes, eukaryotes, and viruses; (ii) microbial biochemistry and physiology; (iii) microbial taxonomy and phylogeny; (iv) microbial ecology and agricultural microbiology; and (v) industrial microbiology and biotechnology.

A study of pathogenic microorganisms and the control of infectious diseases. Topics include: (i) the biology of bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and helminths; (ii) infectious diseases of temperate and tropical climates; (iii) immunity, immunology, and immunization; (iv) sterilization, disinfection, chemotherapeutic agents; and (v) epidemiology and public health microbiology.

An in-depth survey of evolution as an organizing theory in biology, with emphasis on the primary scientific literature. Topics covered include comparative genomics, sources of variation, natural selection, genetic drift, adaptation, sexual selection, kin selection, speciation and phylogenetics.

An inventory of basic plant mechanisms and plant development. Mechanisms include assimilation, transport, and utilization of water and mineral nutrients and the utilization and distribution of photoassimilates. Plant development includes cell division, tissue culture, meristems, and the role of hormones in plant morphogenesis. Experimental approaches and biotechnology applications of plant molecular biology are stressed.

An exploration of non-vascular plants and the important niches they occupy, particularly in aquatic or moist environments and in relation to human health. The course covers algae, fungi, lichens, and bryophytes including classification, development, physiology, and ecology. Applied aspects include productivity of freshwater and marine systems, commercial uses, mushroom culture, plant pathology and environmental and human health. Firsthand experience of the organisms includes local field trips and laboratory studies.

An exploration of the role of plants as the basis for most ecosystems, and as valuable resources for agriculture, horticulture, forestry, biotechnology, and other areas of human concern. The study of vascular plants includes classification, development, physiology, ecology, and economic uses, with comparison of form, function, and significance. The course involves local field trips and laboratory studies. Recent discoveries in plant biology are highlighted through the completion of a literature review.

A comparative study of the vertebrate classes with special emphasis on the anatomy and physiology of representative forms. The significance of advances in the complexity of chordates is considered, as well as the impact of human activities on vertebrate population dynamics.