A study of the structure and function of cells as the fundamental building units of living organisms. Topics include, but are not restricted to the molecular constituents of cells, major cell organelles, endo/exocytosis, intracellular signaling, cell growth and metabolism, and special cell functions. Methods of investigation will be examined throughout the course and the development of hypotheses and theories will be placed in a historical and contemporary context. Includes a weekly three-hour lab. Materials fee applies.

Discussion of the organization, replication, transmission, expression, and evolution of genetic materials. The course is organized around the levels of genes, chromosomes, organisms and populations. Topics include the expression, control and mutation of genes; the molecular organization and information coding; replication, repair, transmission and mutation of chromosomes; the relation between genes, genotype, phenotype and environment; and the genetic structure and variability of populations, including selection and speciation. Throughout the course methods of investigation will be explained. The structure and operation of genetics as a science will also receive attention. Includes a weekly three-hour lab. Materials fee applies.