Biological Sciences Courses | 2026-2027 Graduate Catalog | SIU

An introduction to fundamental biological concepts. Emphasis is placed on exploring plant and animal model systems using contemporary methodologies. Examples of biological processes will be covered from genomics to ecosystems. Prepares teachers to introduce biological principles and innovative approaches to understanding biological systems in the classroom. Prerequisite: SCI 210A & B or equivalent.

Credit Hours: 3

Advanced course in Science Communication. Learn skills in written, visual, and oral communication with a focus on translating primary scientific research for broad audiences including the public. Learn about writing, developing, and presenting engaging materials for diverse audiences without sacrificing scientific accuracy. Both formal and informal formats will be examined including primary and popular science literature, mass media, blogs, and policy. Gain skills for effective visual and graphical presentations. Learn strategies for talking science with the public, incorporating strategies from improvisational and public speaking methods, as well as speaking to controversies.

Credit Hours: 3

An introduction to the study of interactions between organisms and their environment at the organismal, population, community, and ecosystem levels, presented at the graduate level. Includes discussion of global ecology, biodiversity, and conservation. Prerequisites: BIOL 212 and BIOL 213, or PLB 200, or equivalents.

Credit Hours: 3

An advanced investigation of the principles and processes of embryonic development including contemporary research on molecular, cellular and genetic mechanisms of differentiation and morphogenesis; selected plants and invertebrate and vertebrate animals will be considered. Prerequisite: BIOL 305 with a grade of C- or better. Credit Hours: 3.

Credit Hours: 3

An advanced introduction to the principles of human genetics, from detailed treatment of DNA structure and function to an overview of the human genome and cancer genetics will be covered with emphasis on implications to medical practice. Other major topics include genetic variation, patterns of inheritance, the human genome, genetic screening and risk assessment, and treatment of genetic disorders. Prerequisite: BIOL 305 with a grade of C- or better. Credit Hours: 3.

Credit Hours: 3

For students who have not finished their degree programs and who are in the process of working on their dissertations, thesis, or research paper. The student must have completed a minimum of 24 hours of dissertation research, or the minimum thesis, or research hours before being eligible to register for this course. Concurrent enrollment in any course is not permissible. Graded S/U. Prerequisite: minimum hours as stated above.

Credit Hours: 1

This course focuses on quantitative approaches and analytical reasoning needed for graduate and professional school problem solving, and for research data analysis encountered in graduate and professional education. Topics include mathematical problem solving integrating algebraic, geometric, logarithmic and trigonometric methods; applied calculations for medical practice and research. Emphasis is placed on ensuring students have appropriate quantitative reasoning competencies for professional school. Restricted to students enrolled in MEDPREP.

Credit Hours: 1-3

Discussion-based course focusing on understanding of human physiology and biochemistry in the context of medical disease. Using a problem-based learning format, student will work in small groups to investigate simulated patient cases, identify and address learning issues associated with both doctoring and biological science, research physiological and biochemical mechanisms of disease, and present findings in oral and written forms.

Credit Hours: 3

Seminar course focused on development of career and networking skills critical for success in the health professions. Required for all MEDPREP students enrolled in concurrent master degree programs. Restricted to MEDPREP students.

Credit Hours: 1

Content may be supplemental (to concurrent biological science courses), additional (permitting acceleration), or preparational for the MCAT/DAT. Restricted to MEDPREP students enrolled in Master's level program.

Credit Hours: 1-3

Content may be supplemental (to concurrent biological science courses), additional (permitting acceleration), or preparational for the MCAT/DAT. Restricted to MEDPREP students enrolled in Master's level program.

Credit Hours: 1-3

Course covers major biological systems and processes, with a focus on integration of disciplinary approaches and knowledge in preparation for professional study of medicine. Physiological systems covered include nervous, muscular, endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestion, renal, immune response, reproduction and embryology; as well as cellular metabolism, molecular biology, biochemistry of the cell, genetics, evolution, microbiology and virology. Research methodologies and data analysis are integral to the presentation of topics, which vary by semester. Restricted to students enrolled in MEDPREP.

Credit Hours: 1-3

Course covers major chemical systems and processes, with a focus on integration of disciplinary approaches and knowledge in preparation for professional study of medicine. Chemistry topics covered include atomic structure and periodic theory of elements, stoichiometry, chemical bonding, solutions and mixtures, electrochemistry, thermochemistry. Research methodologies and data analysis are integral to the presentation of topics, which vary by semester. Restricted to students enrolled in MEDPREP.

Credit Hours: 1-3

Course covers major organic chemistry systems and processes, with a focus on integration of disciplinary approaches and knowledge in preparation for professional study of medicine. Topics covered include structure, bonding and resonance, organic molecules, functional groups, organic reactions, and spectroscopy. Research methodologies and data analysis are integral to the presentation of topics, which vary by semester. Restricted to students enrolled in MEDPREP.

Credit Hours: 1-3

Topics in biological chemistry and biochemistry, with an emphasis on impact of cellular-level biochemistry and metabolic processes on physiological systems, human health and human disease. Restricted to MEDPREP students.

Credit Hours: 1-3