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Course Syllabus

BIOL 2030 Introductory Genetics

  • Division: Natural Science and Math
  • Department: Biology
  • Credit/Time Requirement: Credit: 4; Lecture: 4; Lab: 0
  • Prerequisites: BIOL 1610 (can be taken concurrently), or with instructor's permission.
  • Corequisites: BIOL 2035
  • Semesters Offered: Fall
  • Semester Approved: Fall 2022
  • Five-Year Review Semester: Summer 2028
  • End Semester: Summer 2028
  • Optimum Class Size: 12
  • Maximum Class Size: 24

Course Description

This introductory genetics course includes the studies of transmission, population, and quantitative genetics incorporating both molecular and classical aspects of genetic studies. Specific topics include DNA and chromosome structure, regulation of gene expression, mutation, Mendelian genetics, and population genetics. The focus is on applications and current research. This course is required for most biology related majors and recommended for those on a a pre-professional track.

Justification

The Introductory Genetics lecture course (BIOL 2030) and laboratory (BIOL 2035) are part of the biology majors lower division core. This course will help students progress through the biology major pathway. Genetics at Snow is similar to other genetics courses found at most USHE schools. It is a requirement for most biology majors, and related (e.g. plant science). Genetics is recommended for pre-med, PA, pre-vet, even pre-dental students.

Student Learning Outcomes

  1. Students will be able to discuss key scientific hypotheses and theories related to biology and genetics which seek to explain natural phenomena in the light of the scientific method.
  2. Students will be able to apply principles of genetics (e.g. the nature of DNA, transcription, translation, gene regulation, gene mapping, transmission genetics, penetrance natural selection, and genetic engineering) to assist in the resolution of questions dealing with the natural world.
  3. Students will be able to effectively read and discuss key scientific literature (including primary sources) and discern credibility of scientific information.
  4. Students will be able to demonstrate principles of lifelong learning by seeking sources outside of the classroom to assist in their understanding of genetic principles.

Course Content

This course will cover the following topics: nature of the hereditary material; DNA structure and chromosomes; DNA replication; mendelian genetics; linkage, recombination, and gene mapping; mutations; RNA structure and protein synthesis; gene expression and regulation; epigenetics; genomes; chromosomal rearrangements, ploidy and aneuploidy; organelle inheritance; population genetics; quantitative genetics; genetic analysis of complex traits; biotechnology, gene therapy, and gene editing.A genetics course provides many different opportunities to highlight a variety of identities, perspectives, and backgrounds. This course will address how genetics is a way of knowing about the natural world. As such, there will be discussions on how genetics has shaped and has been shaped by historical, ethical, and social contexts.