Biology
The Master of Arts in Biology program helps students to update and deepen their knowledge of the biomedical sciences, prepare for employment in related fields, and advance their professional standing while obtaining a graduate science degree on a part-time basis through evening, weekend and online courses.
The program is designed to be adaptable to each individual's unique background and goals, and it provides a flexible curriculum and close individual advising for each student. Students include science and health professionals, teachers, technicians, and individuals in biology-related businesses.
Students in this program have the option of choosing a concentration in neurobiology for deeper, more focused study.
Contact Info
Contact: | Kilinyaa Cothran |
Phone: | 314-935-3503 |
Email: | cothran@wustl.edu |
Website: | http://caps.wustl.edu/programs/graduate/masters-biology |
Master of Arts in Biology
Students seeking the Master of Arts in Biology must satisfactorily complete 30 units of graduate courses in the biological sciences, including a required capstone experience, which occurs after they have completed 21 units in the program and is chosen from the following options:
- Complete U29 Bio 401 Problem Based Learning in the Biomedical Sciences
- Complete a 3-unit independent study
- Complete a 6-unit master's thesis: Students with appropriate backgrounds, interests and academic qualifications may, with authorization, write a master’s thesis based on original library or laboratory research.
Note: The above options cannot count as the capstone experience if they occur before a student has completed 21 units toward the Master of Arts in Biology.
Optional Concentration in Neurobiology
School of Continuing & Professional Studies students who are admitted to the Master of Arts in Biology program may select an optional concentration in neurobiology. Neurobiology is the study of the structure and function of the nervous system. This concentration helps prepare students for careers in biomedical fields, including research and clinical practice in medicine, neuroscience and cognitive science. The optional concentration requires 12 units of courses, selected from the list below:
Choose four of the following courses:
Code | Title | Units |
---|---|---|
Bio 435 | Neurobiology | 3 |
Bio 436 | The Neural Basis of Behavior | 3 |
Bio 4721 | The Biology of Membranes | 3 |
Bio 478 | Neuroscience: Sensory Systems | 3 |
Bio 485 | Synaptic Change in the Nervous System | 3 |
Credit Transfer
A maximum of 6 credits of related and comparable graduate-level courses may be transferred from another university or from a related graduate program at Washington University with the approval of the program director. These must be graduate-level units not used to fulfill undergraduate degree requirements. Transfer credit may be granted only for authorized courses for which the student received a grade of B or higher.
Please note that the Master of Arts in Biology degree is a terminal graduate degree awarded on the basis of the completion of courses rather than research. Except in rare cases, it is not intended as preparation for a PhD degree. No more than 6 of the 30 credits required for this program may be earned in research courses. Those students interested in graduate research or in earning a PhD should apply to the PhD programs offered by Washington University's Division of Biology and Biomedical Sciences.
Visit online course listings to view semester offerings for U29 Bio.
U29 Bio 400 Independent Study
Requires written proposal, instructor, coordinator and deans approval in University College
Credit variable, maximum 3 units.
View Sections
U29 Bio 401 Problem Based Learning in the Biomedical Sciences
Much of biology education is learning and applying what we already know. However, a career in science demands an ability to evaluate what we know in order to discover what we do not. In this course we will sharpen this skill. Students will be guided on how to read and interpret current research articles from the scientific literature. Weekly topics from previous years have included cancer therapy, infectious diseases, CRISPR, microbiome, stem cells, gene therapy, and immunotherapy. You will learn to prepare and present a scientific presentation, interpret the data, and evaluate next potential research questions. In this course, students will work in teams to work on biological problems that puzzle modern scientists. Students should have broad interests and background in biology, molecular biology, and medicine. Students should be curious, exploratory, interactive, and willing to build this unique skill required in scientific careers of all kinds. Students aspiring to be in the biomedical fields find this course very useful and inspiring. Bio 401 satisfies the capstone requirement for the MA program in biology, provided that at least 21 units of graduate-level coursework has been completed toward this program prior to enrollment in Bio 401. Prerequisites: General Biology I and II
Credit 3 units. UColl: OLI
View Sections
U29 Bio 4022 Viruses and the Diseases They Cause
The goal of this course is to understand different families of viruses. We will discuss the diseases that they cause, mechanisms they use to evade host defense mechanisms, and current therapies used to treat these viruses. Prerequisites: General Biology I and II or permission of the instructor.
Credit 3 units.
View Sections
U29 Bio 4024 Biology of Human Disease: Research, Diagnosis, Prevention, Treatment
The aim of this course is to develop an appreciation of the complex nature of human diseases. We examine inherited and acquired human diseases, including cystic fibrosis, AIDS, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and diabetes to help us better understand how genetic mutations, environmental stress, and infections affect various cellular processes, disturb normal functioning of tissues and organs, and lead to the development of a disease. We will learn how the latest advances in basic, translational, and clinical research change our understanding of the underlying causes of human diseases and how they drive the development of new and effective methods of diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. Prerequisites: General Biology I and II or permission of instructor. Priority given to students enrolled in the Post-Baccalaureate Premedical program.
Same as L86 PBPM Study 4024
Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI
View Sections
U29 Bio 4029 Introduction to Medical Histology
This course is for master's students, as well as premedical and other pre-professional students who want to become proficient in the examination and interpretation of microscopic anatomy. The course uses a lecture format combined with in-class and on-line tissue slide studies. Knowledge of microscopy and basic tissue types gained in the first part of the course is applied in the investigation of complex organs in the second half of the semester. Medical correlates are stressed. Exams are written, on-line, and in-class utilizing microscopes. Prerequisites: College-level Biology and Chemistry.
Credit 3 units. UColl: OLI
View Sections
U29 Bio 4041 Evolutionary Nutrition
This course explores the interrelationships between human nutritional requirements/adaptations and evolution. We will examine ideas and evidence concerning such concepts as biochemical individuality, nutritional genetics and genomics, evolutionary medicine and the microbiome, among others. Lecture-discussions will focus on material from the texts recommended for this course. Drawing upon the latest research into the original human diet (from peer-reviewed scientific journals), students will create literature review case studies related to lecture topics. The overall objective of this course is to understand how each individual's unique body chemistry gives rise to their specific "metabolic type" with its own specific nutritional requirements. Prerequisites: Introductory Biology course; familiarity with molecular biology and evolutionary concepts.
Credit 3 units. UColl: OLI
View Sections
U29 Bio 405 Introduction to Molecular Biology
This course will examine the fundamental principles of cellular processes at the molecular level. Among the major topics covered are nucleic acid chemistry, gene structure and organization in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, gene expression, and recombinant DNA and transgenic/knockout (including conditional knockout) mouse technology. The topic of the CRISPR/Cas system used for gene editing will also be included. In addition, the idea of genes and genomes will be discussed with an introduction to functional and comparative genomics. In particular, emphasis will be placed on the regulation of gene expression and protein synthesis and the various methodologies utilized to address these topics. In addition, the concepts of siRNA, miRNA, and the phenomenon of RNA-interference will be covered with the topic of micro RNA and disease, and the importance of these small non-coding RNA molecules, highlighted by presentation of current scientific literature. Also included will be a major publication showing how RNA interference can be used as a tool to unlock the secrets of human embryonic stem cells. A number of commonly used molecular biology and biochemical lab techniques will also be covered, in addition to more current tools such as microarray and proteomics that can be used to address global changes in transcriptional profiles. Prerequisites: General Biology I and II and Organic Chemistry I.
Credit 3 units. UColl: OLI
View Sections
U29 Bio 406 Introduction to Biochemistry
This course provides a basic understanding of the molecular structure of biomolecules, the metabolic processes by which these molecules are synthesized and degraded, and the energy produced to support cellular processes. It includes a study of enzyme kinetics and metabolic control mechanisms. Prerequisite: Chem 261 (either with lab or lecture only is acceptable) or permission of instructor. Priority given to students enrolled in the Post-Baccalaureate Premedical program.
Same as L86 PBPM Study 406
Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI
View Sections
U29 Bio 4080 Tropical Marine Biology
This course examines the biological and ecological processes that influence ecosystem dynamics and biodiversity within coral reef, seagrass, shoreline, and mangrove communities. We discuss the threats to coastal and marine ecosystems worldwide. Prerequisite: General Biology I. Online. For MS in Bio students.
Credit 3 units. UColl: OLI
View Sections
U29 Bio 4111 Tropical Ecology
This course examines the terrestrial and marine ecosystems of the tropics, focusing predominantly on the Neotropics. We examine the biological and ecological processes that influence ecosystem dynamics and biodiversity within representative communities. We discuss issues of conservation, sustainable development and resource use, and the human impact on these fragile ecosystems. Prerequisite: General Biology I or permission of instructor.
Credit 3 units. UColl: OLH, OLI
View Sections
U29 Bio 413 Environmental Science: Regional and Global Perspectives
This course examines the interrelationships between humans and their environment, moving from local and regional views up to a global perspective. Taking an ecosystem approach, the course starts with basic ecological principles necessary for understanding our environment. We will then explore how environmental science incorporates concepts from politics, social sciences, economics, ethics, and philosophy; physical and biological resources; conservation, management, sustainability, and restoration; population principles; environmental economics; human impacts (especially pollution and disturbance); environmental health and toxicology; and environmental policy. Lectures and discussions will focus on the major issues involved in environmental challenges, drawing on current, carefully selected articles from some of the most respected magazines, newspapers, and journals published today. Prerequisite: General Biology I or permission of the instructor.
Credit 3 units. UColl: OLI
View Sections
U29 Bio 4130 Environmental Medicine
Environmental Medicine explores the interactions between the environment and human health, focusing on the role of the environment in causing or mediating disease. Environmental hazards are examined in terms of toxicology, epidemiology, exposure assessment, risk assessment, individual susceptibility, adaptation/maladaptation, and the total load concept. Prerequisite: General Biology I or permission of the instructor.
Credit 3 units. UColl: OLI
View Sections
U29 Bio 4170 Endocrine Physiology
Biochemical, physiological, and regulatory properties of the mammalian endocrine system at the molecular, cellular, and systemic level with a focus on human physiology and development. Topics will explore endocrine cell signaling, molecular mechanisms of hormone action, homeostasis and feedback systems including neurendocrine integration of physiological processes, endocrine control of cardiovascular and calcium homeostasis, and select discussion of endocrine pathologies. In addition to class and textbook material there will be exposure to the primary research literature.
Credit 3 units.
View Sections
U29 Bio 419 Ecology
Community ecology is an interdisciplinary field that bridges concepts in biodiversity science, biogeography, evolution and conservation. This course provides an introduction to the study of pattern and process in ecological communities with an emphasis on theoretical, statistical and experimental approaches. Topics include: ecological and evolutionary processes that create and maintain patterns of biodiversity; biodiversity and ecosystem function; island biogeography, metacommunity dynamics, niche and neutral theory; species interactions (competition, predation, food webs), species coexistence and environmental change. The class format includes lectures, discussions, and computer labs focused on analysis, modeling and presentation of ecological data using the statistical program R. Prereq: Bio 2970 required, Bio 381 recommended, or permission of instructor.
Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Arch: NSM Art: NSM
View Sections
U29 Bio 4241 Immunology
This course covers basic molecular and cellular aspects of the vertebrate immune system emphasizing specific and nonspecific host defense against disease, the nature of immunological specificity, and its underlying molecular genetics. We also cover immunochemistry and its use in immunoassay systems, the nature of cell activation, cytokines, tolerance and autoimmunity, allergic reactions, blood groups, transplantation reactions, immunodeficiency, and complement systems. Prerequisites: two or more of the following courses are recommended: Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology/Nucleic Acids, Microbiology/Virology, Pathology/Pathobiology. Does not apply to day undergraduate biology major or College of Arts and Sciences distribution requirement.
Credit 3 units. UColl: OLI
View Sections
U29 Bio 431 Biology of Aging
This course provides concepts and examples of the biology of aging. We discuss current literature with emphasis on theoretical causes of aging and the practical implications of these theories. Major topics include the biochemical processes of aging, cell cycle senescence, age-related organ dysfunction, interventions to alter the aging process, and medical illnesses associated with aging (e.g., Alzheimer's disease, the dementias). We also study animal and human models for extending longevity, and current approaches for dealing with the aging process are included. Prerequisites: Biol 2960 and Biol 2970 or equivalent; Chem 105 and Chem 106 or equivalent are recommended.
Same as L41 Biol 4310
Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Arch: NSM Art: NSM BU: SCI
View Sections
U29 Bio 432 Conservation Biology and Biodiversity
This overview of the fields of conservation biology and biodiversity covers topics such as species preservation, habitat restoration, refuge design and management, and human population growth. Does not count for day, undergraduate Biology major. Prerequisite: General Biology I or permission of the instructor.
Credit 3 units. UColl: OLI
View Sections
U29 Bio 435 Neurobiology
An extensive introduction to neurobiology. Starting with the elementary building blocks of the nervous system, neurons, the course covers development and regeneration of the nervous system, properties of neurons and glia, ionic basis of signaling and neurotransmitters, neural circuits and the generation of behavior, and brain function in health and disease. Introduction to the latest techniques available to the modern neuroscientist. Guest speakers and discussion sessions. (Not applicable for undergraduate biology major.) Prerequisite: General Biology I or equivalent.
Credit 3 units. UColl: OLI
View Sections
U29 Bio 436 The Neural Basis of Behavior
This course provides an overview of how the nervous system works from a biological perspective. We will begin by studying how nerve cells function, focusing on how they transmit signals and communicate with one another through specialized connections called synapses. We will further examine the anatomy of the nervous system to discover how nerve cells are organized into circuits and how these circuits develop. Finally, we will investigate how the specialized properties of our nerve cells allow us to interact with our environment through an in-depth study of our motor and sensory systems. Prerequisites: General Biology I and II or permission from the instructor.
Credit 3 units. UColl: OLI
View Sections
U29 Bio 4391 Modern Genetics
This course will introduce students to concepts in genetics from classical Mendelian inheritance to modern theories of gene regulation and epigenetics. It will also focus on the use of bioinformatics to analyze genes and genomes, and the mapping of quantitative trait loci. The course will include discussion of current research literature, with an emphasis on experimental design and techniques. Modern genetics is particularly well suited for students who wish to pursue a career in the health sciences or who are interested in continuing their graduate studies in genetics or molecular biology. Prerequisite: General Biology I.
Same as L86 PBPM Study 4391
Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI
View Sections
U29 Bio 4501 Evolution
Evolution, in its broadest senses, is the fundamental unifying theory in biology; as such, its scope is arguably the greatest in all the biological sciences. This course is intended to provide a framework for understanding advanced concepts of evolutionary biology. Particular emphasis will be placed on how knowledge of evolutionary theory can be applied to the problems of today? world and to providing a general understanding of the diversity of life on earth and its origins. The course will cover both micro and macro-evolution and include topics such as natural, kin, and sexual selection; the ecological context of adaptation, speciation, coevolution, as well as misconceptions described by opponents of evolutionary biology. Prerequisite: General Biology I.
Credit 3 units. BU: SCI
View Sections
U29 Bio 458 Readings and Research in Biomedical Sciences
Each day, more than 5000 new biomedical research articles are published. As a future physician and scientist, you will need to be able to identify and stay current on medical advancements. Medicine is interdisciplinary, and a successful scientific career means being able to make connections between diverse research fields. The goal of this journal club is help students develop skills for locating, analyzing, and understanding scientific research articles. Students will learn how to locate primary journal articles using a variety of search engines such as PubMed and Ovid, and practice reading articles outside of their comfort zone without being intimidated by scientific jargin and formal writing styles. Students will be expected to discuss current research articles and develop effective scientific writing skills by analyzing the main sections of a scientific manuscript (Abstract, Background, Methods, Results, Discussion, Conclusion, Implications).
Credit 2 units.
View Sections
U29 Bio 4582 The Essentials of Biomedical Scientific Writing and Presenting
This course will provide the most fundamental techniques for effectively reviewing, writing and presenting scientific information. The goal of this course is to help students understand scientific communication better. They will become familiar with the structure of scientific papers, grants and presentations and will learn to critically evaluate each form of communication. Students will learn the characteristics of outstanding scientific writing and presenting, including academic style, coherence, clear data presentation, and word choice through classroom exercises and mock presentations. Classes will consist of a lecture (1 hour) followed by a classroom exercise (1.5 hours). Students will be graded on classroom exercises and writing assignments. Prerequisites: General Biology I and General Biology II.
Credit 3 units. UColl: OLI
View Sections
U29 Bio 4590 Advanced Physiology
In this course, students will examine physiology in a cohesive evolutionary context. For each system, we will first review the general anatomy and physiology, turning then to the molecular basis of function and dysfunction. An understanding of the various physiological systems will be synthesized in the context of evolutionary history. Each class will begin with an overview of the basic physiology of one of the major organ systems, including neural, respiratory, cardiovascular, endocrine, digestive, urogenital and immune. In the remainder of each class, we will apply this understanding to recent discoveries presented in the primary scientific literature. Students will each present a synthesis of the literature on a particular system and lead two class discussions during the semester. Priority given to students enrolled in the Post-Baccalaureate Premedical program.
Same as L86 PBPM Study 4590
Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI
View Sections
U29 Bio 463 Global Health Issues
This course is designed to inform and challenge participants to observe and solve problems relating to world health issues while teaching basic biology concepts. Participants will investigate barriers to solving problems of Nutrition, Infectious disease and Environmental factors that prevent progress of global communities. They will also research new technologies being developed that could potentially provide solutions as well as create an ideal lesson using global health issues the focus. Open to Post-Bacc Students. Prerequisite: General Biology I or permission from the instructor.
Credit 3 units. UColl: OLI
View Sections
U29 Bio 4631 Urban Agriculture and Sustainable Food Systems
In this course we take a systems (holistic) approach to sustainable agriculture. We review the basic principles of food systems geography, food and nutritional security and insecurity, work with cross cultural perspectives, and examine the inter-related issues of poverty, hunger, equity, access and distribution throughout the global, regional and local food systems. We will critically review large, medium, and small scale agricultural systems, comparing industrial, organic, natural and ecological systems. Students will develop a food systems framework through examination of the social, ecological, economic, and institutional dimensions of the many sustainability challenges associated with food system activities (production, processing, distribution, consumption, waste).
Credit 3 units. UColl: OLI
View Sections
U29 Bio 471 Topics in Cancer Biology
Cancer has a significant impact on society in the United States and across the world. This course aims at providing students with a more extensive understanding of what cancer is and how it affects the human body. This course will teach you to be conversant on issues related to cancer, including its etiology, development, genetics, treatments, and prevention. We will be using a combination of lectures and discussions, so each student is expected and encouraged to participate in class discussions and contribute relevant thoughts and ideas. The material will cover the basics of cancer biology using a traditional lecture including a review of relevant primary literature. The online portion of the course will include discussions of current topics and research articles and videos that will be assigned. The major topics covered in the course include causes of cancer, Oncogenes, p53 its role in cell cycle and cell death, Mutagens and carcinogenesis, Cancer Genetics, Cancer metastasis, Hypoxia, Angiogenesis, Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT), Cancer screening, diagnosis, Cancer therapy including immunotherapy, Cancer biomarkers, Cancer staging, Cancer Imaging and Personalized medicine. Prerequisite: General Biology I.
Credit 3 units. UColl: OLH, OLI
View Sections
U29 Bio 4715 Basic Cancer Biology
More than two thirds of all people know someone who has cancer. This course provides students with a more extensive understanding of what cancer is and how it affects the human body. We will discuss the history of cancer research, the many different types of human cancers, and basic chemotherapeutics. The topics will be presented in a basic scientific nature, with an emphasis on gaining a broad understanding of the subjects. Prerequisite: Biol 2960 or equivalent. Not available to students who have credit for Biol 144 or Biol 1440.
Same as L41 Biol 4715
Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Arch: NSM Art: NSM BU: SCI
View Sections
U29 Bio 4716 Advanced Cancer Biology
This advanced course provides students with a more in-depth understanding of the molecular mechanisms of cancer. We will discuss tumor suppressors, oncogenes, signaling pathways, animal models in cancer, and novel targeted cancer therapies being developed by biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies. Prerequisite: Biol 144, Biol 1440 or Biol 4715.
Same as L41 Biol 4716
Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI
View Sections
U29 Bio 472 Cell Biology and Its Molecular Foundation
This course addresses cellular events in eukaryotes and their molecular foundation. Its focuses include how DNA is decoded into messages for various cellular activities, how structures and functions of cells are maintained, how cells communicate with their environment, and how interactions between cells lead to the construction of an organism. Current technologies for cell biology study will be also discussed. Prerequisite: An undergraduate biology course. Priority is given to students enrolled in the Post-Baccalaureate Premedical program.
Same as L86 PBPM Study 472
Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI
View Sections
U29 Bio 4721 The Biology of Membranes
Biological membranes not only define cell and organelle boundaries but also control the substances that are allowed to enter or exit the cell or organelle. Biomembrane structures, including composition, determine functions. The goal of this class is to examine cell membrane structure, membrane components and their organization into domains, and functions. Cholesterol is an important membrane lipid that is linked to biomembranes structurally and functionally. Misregulation of synthesis or trafficking of lipids, including cholesterol, contributes to many human diseases. Students will learn historical background and recent advances in membrane biology, following the path taken by cholesterol and others. Prerequisite: General Biology I or permission of the instructor.
Credit 3 units. UColl: OLI
View Sections
U29 Bio 477 Fundamentals of Parasitology
This course covers a variety of clinically relevant parasitic organisms and their importance to human disease. We will discuss in detail the interactions of parasites with the host immune response both in terms of mechanisms whereby the host resists infections by these organisms and also how these parasites circumvent the host's ability to eliminate them. Because so much of the clinical importance of parasites has to do with this interaction, we will also cover general aspects of the workings of the immune system. There will be an emphasis on the nature of the host-parasite interaction on a molecular level. Lectures include discussions of recent literature concerning parasites and their interactions with the host.
Credit 3 units. UColl: OLI
View Sections
U29 Bio 478 Neuroscience: Sensory Systems
This course examines transduction and neural processing of various sensory inputs, including vision, audition, somatosensation, and special senses. Topics ranging from anatomy and physiology of the human sensory systems to the sensory plasticity will be discussed. Topics also include organization of sensory map, sensory reorganization, sensory integration, sensory-motor interactions and higher cognitive functions. We also discuss clinical aspects of sensory dysfunctions. We will explore landmark works and recent studies on sensory neurosciences. Prerequisite: General Biology I
Credit 3 units. UColl: OLI
View Sections
U29 Bio 480 Mechanisms of Microbial Pathogenesis
This class is designed to specifically address mechanisms whereby microbes of three basic types: Bacteria, Viruses, and eukaryotic parasites, subvert the host immune response and cause disease. The class will therefore be subdivided into three sections studying each of these three types of organisms. This class will primarily focus on recent publications with a short lecture preceding each discussion. Prerequisites: General Biology I and II or permission from the instructor.
Credit 3 units.
View Sections
U29 Bio 481 Evolutionary Medicine
Evolutionary Medicine examines how human evolution relates to a broad range of contemporary health problems including infectious, chronic, nutritional, and mental diseases and disorders. The primary goal of the course is to compare modern human environments and behaviors with the conditions under which humans evolved to determine the extent to which medical conditions of the present may be a consequence of adaptation to different conditions of the past. Hybrid online, meeting on the following Thursdays 1/29, 2/12, 2/26, 3/12, 4/9, 4/23.
Credit 3 units.
View Sections
U29 Bio 4811 Advanced Wilderness Medicine
This course will explore the physiology underlying diagnosis and treatment protocols for wilderness and remote first aid. In each section we will first review evidence-based, best practices and then discuss the underlying mechanisms and physiology. In addition to learning the theory of emergency medical care, we will gain experience practicing life saving techniques including: CPR, wound cleaning and care, splinting of fractures and dislocations, spinal stabilization, and treatment of heat stroke and hypothermia. Prerequisite: Completion of Introductory Biology and one additional biology course.
Same as L86 PBPM Study 4811
Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI
View Sections
U29 Bio 483 Cardiovascular Function, Diseases, and Therapeutics
In this course, students will receive an in-depth study of cardiovascular function from a cellular and molecular perspective. In addition, students will learn the etiology of cardiovascular diseases and therapeutics at the cellular and molecular levels. Finally, students will gain insight into the biomedical process through engagement of the scientific literature in a problem-based learning, presentation and discussion format to complement in-class material. By the end of the course, students should be knowledgeable in the following: (1) the basic anatomy and histology of the heart and vascular tree; (2) the cellular and molecular basis of cardiac and vascular functions; (3) mechanisms of cardiovascular-related dysfunctions and related therapeutics; and (4) introductory interpretation of the scientific literature. Prerequisites: Courses in human systems, cell biology, and/or physiology are strongly recommended.
Credit 3 units.
View Sections
U29 Bio 485 Synaptic Change in the Nervous System
In this course, we study synapses and how they are modified by experience in development, learning, and memory. Topics include the impact of different types of synapses on neural function; activity-dependent synaptic organization during nervous system development; the link between synaptic plasticity and learning and memory; circuitry and mechanisms of explicit and implicit memory formation; and synaptic organization and function in aging. We also learn how learning and memory are altered in mood disorders and addiction, as well as how they are affected by sleep and exercise. Prerequisites: Introduction to Psychology and previous course work in biology.
Credit 3 units. UColl: OLI
View Sections
U29 Bio 4866 Communicating Science: Writing for Multiple Audiences
This course introduces strategies for writing effectively and communicating scientific research to a variety of audiences. Students will learn to reduce jargon, explain scientific concepts in common language, write clearly and concisely, and use sentence structure to maximum efficiency. Written assignments emphasize the significance and innovation in scientific research that appeal to broad audiences, including: the general public, students, policy makers, grant reviewers, and journal editors. This course meets biweekly and consists of lectures and small group sessions. You must enroll in both the lecture session (section 1) and a small group (section A, B, C, or D).
Same as L41 Biol 5866
Credit 1 unit.
View Sections
U29 Bio 487 Undergraduate Teaching Assistant
Exceptional undergraduates serve as teaching assistants for laboratory and/or discussion sections in departmental courses. Normally 2 or 3 units are given per semester, subject to the approval of the instructor and the department. Credit may not be counted toward fulfilling a major in University College; Independent Study application form required . Prerequisite: permission of instructor. Credit /No Credit only.
Credit variable, maximum 3 units.
View Sections
U29 Bio 492 Entering Mentoring
This course is a series of facilitated discussions aimed at developing and improving mentoring skills for those involved in supervising undergraduate research experiences. It is designed for postdocs and graduate students who are or will be ´bench mentors´ for undergraduates doing Bio 500 and/or Summer Research. Participants will receive "Entering Mentoring" materials, including articles and worksheets to facilitate mentoring interactions with their mentee, plus several resource books relevant to mentoring. They will develop a mentoring philosophy statement, work on specific assignments designed to improve their relationship with their mentee and share their present and past experiences as mentors and mentees. Bench mentors will be eligible for a travel award to help defray expenses for attending a meeting with their mentee, if that student wins one of the HHMI SURF travel awards (4-5 awarded annually) or is otherwise being supported to present at a scientific meeting. Prerequisite: open to graduate students and postdocs, with priority for those who plan to mentor undergraduates in summer research experiences. Graduate students and postdocs do NOT need to be mentoring a student at the time of the course; it is open to all with an interest in mentoring now or in the future. Note: The sessions will be held either at the beginning of the day or the end of the day at the Danforth campus. Once registration closes, an email will be sent to those registered to poll for the best days & times.
Same as L41 Biol 5922
Credit 1 unit.
View Sections
U29 Bio 500 Independent Study
An independent research project under the supervision of a member of the Biology faculty. Open only to students admitted to the graduate program in Biology. Approved proposal must be presented at the time of registration.
Credit variable, maximum 3 units.
View Sections
U29 Bio 521 Program Capstone I
Graduate students will teach a secondary biology unit integrating major concepts from the first summer institute and conduct action research on its implementation. Teachers will analyze its successes and failures, discuss solutions, and document measures of student learning. Each capstone project will culminate in a final report. As part of the process of developing and reporting on the project, graduate students will work together in small groups based on school and unit topic. Prerequisite: for participants in MS in Biology degree program or by permission of instructor.
Credit 1.5 units. UColl: OLI
View Sections
U29 Bio 5432 Conservation Biology and Biodiversity
We will explore real-world examples of issues involving threats to biodiversity, ecological economics and nature conservation, habitat degradation and loss, habitat fragmentation, overexploitation, species invasions, biological impacts of climate change, conservation genetics, species and landscape approaches to conservation, ecosystem approaches to conservation, restoration of damaged ecosystems, and sustainable development. This course is fully online. Students enrolled in day classes at Washington University should review the policies of their home division on credit earned for online courses. Prerequisite: for MS in Biology students only.
Credit 3 units. UColl: OLI
View Sections
U29 Bio 552 Human Genetics and Cytogenetics
Human or medical genetics is one of the most rapidly advancing fields of science and is now integral to all aspects of biomedical science. This course provides a genetic perspective on the function of the human body in health and disease. Beginning with a study of chromosomes and the disorders that result from their aberrations, the course presents the theoretical background necessary for a deeper understanding of the emerging impact of human genetics on biology. Topics includes chromosomal basis of heredity, autosomal and sex chromosomal abnormalities, and cancer genetics. Students will be introduced to the specific molecular and cytogenetic techniques that have revolutionized the study of human genetics.
Credit 3 units. UColl: OLI
View Sections
U29 Bio 5771 Program Capstone II
Graduate students will teach a secondary biology unit integrating major concepts from the second summer institute and conduct action research on its implementation. Teachers will analyze its successes and failures, discuss solutions, and document measures of student learning. Each capstone project will culminate in a final report. As part of the process of developing and reporting on the project, graduate students will work together in small groups based on school and unit topic. Prerequisite: for participants in MS in Biology degree program or by permission of instructor.
Credit 1.5 units. UColl: OLI
View Sections